NAWILIWILI — Dr. Monty Downs lives his life as a community ambassador.
The Community Ambassador award presented to him by Duke’s Kaua‘i, and numerous other local dignitaries like Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami, Gov. Josh Green’s Kaua‘i representative Dana Hazelton, Jen Chahanovich of the Wilcox Health, and friends and family only confirmed that in writing on Jan. 12 when Duke’s Kaua‘i inaugurated its award.
The Community Ambassador Award celebrates individuals who align with the values of Duke’s Kaua‘i, who have dedicated their time, efforts and funds to improving the lives of Kaua‘i residents, and the island as a whole.
During the award presentation, Downs was described as “demonstrating a passionate commitment to bettering the lives of others” as he took his turn on stage with his harmonica to return the favor of guests who came to the shores of Kalapaki Beach to celebrate the Duke’s Kaua‘i award.
Currently the medical director at Kaua‘i Hospice, Downs has served the community over a span of more than 50 years.
In 1983, he became the first board-certified emergency room physician on the island, working in the Wilcox Emergency Department before retiring. In 2022, he started as medical director of Kaua‘i Hospice to provide high quality care, compassion,and support for island residents near the end of life’s journey.
Outside of work, Downs serves as an officer of the Kaua‘i Lifeguard Association, where he spends countless hours relaying messages of ocean safety to both kama‘aina and visitors to reduce the number of drownings on the island.
He has also been the team physician for the Kapa‘a High School football team, who celebrated his retirement from Wilcox by issuing him a special numbered football jersey.
Downs and his wife, Elaine, are philanthropists who regularly contribute to the Wilcox Health Foundation. The gifts supported the emergency department’s exam room renovation that was completed in the spring of 2022.
As part of the reward for being the community ambassador, Downs received an engraved paddle from Duke’s Kaua‘i, recognition certificates from Kawakami, Gov. Green, and the Hawai‘i Senate. He also received a special congratulatory letter from Wilcox Medical Center President and CEO Jen Chahanovich.
To further expand on Downs’ work, Duke’s Kaua‘i also made a $3,000 donation to Kaua‘i Hospice in Downs’ name.
Duke’s Kaua‘i is located on Kalapaki Beach at the Royal Sonesta Kaua‘i Resort. Its Barefoot Bar is open for lunch and dinner from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Dinner is served in the upstairs dining room from 4:15 to 9 p.m. For reservations, visit www.dukeskauai.com, or call 808-245-9599.
