“The committee is very impressed with the way he prays with his patients and is there for them at any time of the day or night,” Tos said. “He’s also a great supporter of the Foundation and hospital volunteer groups.”
Besides delivering babies, Dr. Enloe has saved countless lives through his surgical expertise, which attracts patients from out of town and out of state. “He’s a genius, a very sweet, kind genius,” said Mary Ann Heman Landis, a hospital board member, volunteer and patient.
The award, which the Foundation will present at its 27th annual Gala on Sept. 24, honors individuals who have demonstrated a commitment to meeting Kings County humanitarian needs. It’s named after the late Dr. Bridwell, who cared for the community for more than four decades through his medical practice, his church and community service.
Dr. Enloe said he’s humbled to receive the award and grateful for the opportunity to serve others through his work. “It’s nice to be able to help people who know that you’re going to be there for them,” he says. He prays for patients because “Often the medical problem is an indication of a deeper emotional or spiritual need. It can be comforting in times of stress.”
Prayer also acknowledges God’s work in healing, he says. “I am totally amazed as I observe the natural healing power of the body that God has given us.” Joni Wheat, Dr. Enloe’s office manager who has worked with him for 15 years, says he helps anyone in need. “He has a big heart. I see his caring side every day.”
Dr. Enloe is the third generation of physicians in his family. His grandfather, Dr. Newton Thomas Enloe, founded Enloe Medical Center in Chico, and his father, Dr. Thomas Schram Enloe, served as an orthopedic surgeon.
He came to Hanford in the 1970s as a medical student who was eager to learn from a “tremendous” Hanford surgeon, Dr. Eugene Haslett. He later cared for patients in Hanford at times during his residency training and decided to move here when he finished because “it was a very friendly hospital with very friendly people and a close community.”
Dr. Enloe says he’s grateful for the expertise and support of nurses who help him and anxious patients and their family members every day. “They do incredible work.” He also deeply appreciates the anesthesia group for supporting deliveries and surgeries and Adventist Health for providing the equipment, facilities and staff “to make it all come together.
The hospital personnel are incredible. I feel so fortunate to have dedicated, hard-working office employees who share my vision of compassionate medical care,” he says. “I feel fortunate to work with physicians and mid-wives who also are dedicated to excellent medical care.”
Dr. Enloe is married to Kathryn and has three adult children: a son, Gregory, as well as a daughter, Chelsea, and a son, Christopher, who are both in college.
In his spare time, Dr.Enloe enjoys spending time with his family, showing classic cars, boating, traveling and participating in Civil War re-enactment events.
The Gala will begin at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 24, at the home of John and Victoria Tos northwest of Hanford. Ticket and sponsorship information is available by calling the foundation at 559-537-0760 or sending an email to Debbie.Nardini@ah.org.