Press Release

Date:July 07, 2004
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

For Further Information Contact:
Leslie Raabe
607-547-3914
leslie.raabe@bassett.org

Diane L. Wells
607-547-6354
diane.wells@bassett.org

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Wilcox Named Bassett's Ambassador of the Month

COOPERSTOWN, NY – In running and in life, Toby Wilcox, Nurse Practitioner, has a simple goal: “You’ve got to face your limitations and push against them.” That philosophy – and the ability to share it with others – helped the cardiothoracic surgery nurse practitioner earn the Ambassador of the Month Award for April. Wilcox was selected for this honor because he represents Bassett core values of quality, respect, service, integrity, and friendliness. In a nomination letter, Janet Eckard, R.N., said Wilcox exemplifies “the best of Bassett’s values and vision.” In addition to sharing his positive attitude and “enthusiastic spirit” with his co-workers, Wilcox has “a genuineness in dealing with patients and their families,” Eckard wrote. Wilcox says he inherited his interpersonal skills from his father, Sam Wilcox, a fellow Ambassador who was a social worker at Bassett for many years. Wilcox graduated from Cooperstown High School in 1985, earning his undergraduate degree at Syracuse University and his master’s at Yale University, followed by post-master’s studies at Binghamton University. After working at Bassett for about two years, he took a job as an acute care nurse practitioner in the cardiac surgery program at St. Elizabeth’s Medical Center in Utica. He worked there for several years, but a year ago he returned to Bassett to help launch the Heart Care Institute. Dr. Robert Lancey, Director of Cardiac Surgery, said Wilcox is a “quick learner” who is seen by colleagues as both a leader and a comrade. “He’s tremendous,” Lancey said. “I’ve told him on more than one occasion that he is the future here.” Wilcox has been logging hours in the Operating Room, working to become an R.N. First Assistant (RNFA) through the University of Rochester. After putting in 2,000 hours of clinical time, he’ll sit for an exam. The RNFA goal is an example of Toby’s constant desire to fulfill his potential. For Wilcox, success means making a difference. “I don’t have a big estate somewhere, but I’ll tell you, I think that I’m doing something useful,” he said. As passionate as he is about his job, he also believes in balance. Besides running, his hobbies include mountain biking, cooking (he prepares most of the meals at home) and music. He writes songs and plays piano at weddings, and his dream is to sell a song to an established performer. Wilcox lives in Fly Creek with his wife, Sharon Wilcox, an Emergency & Trauma Services nurse at Bassett, and their two children.

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