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Meet Your Neighbor: Dr. Paul Wilkes
By Callie Thomas
Having a baby is one of the most precious, joyful experiences in a woman’s life. Having a doctor that provides support, encouragement and a sense of humor throughout the process is indispensible. If he was a character on the popular medical drama Grey’s Anatomy, they’d probably call 89144 resident Dr. Paul Wilkes “Doctor McCheery,” given his ability to put new moms at ease the instant he walks into the room. It’s an innate ability for Wilkes, who’s been hooked on obstetrics from the moment he delivered his first baby.
The nearly native Las Vegan practices maternal-fetal medicine, obstetrics and gynecology at Desert Perinatal Associates. He’s also a published physician, having authored several papers on perinatal topics in esteemed medical journals. His awe of the daily miracles of life and profound respect for motherhood and childcare has driven the good doctor to extend his expertise throughout the community. In addition to caring for patients within his practice, Dr. Wilkes donates medical care, time and money to charities that help the most vulnerable members of our community.
The list of organizations and contributions includes sitting on the board for the Pat Kelley Youth Foundation, which encourages underprivileged youth to pursue an education, gain self-confidence through sports and participate in after-school activities. Jump for Joy, another of the doctor’s favorite charities, is an effort to fight childhood obesity by motivating and educating children to take control of their health. Wilkes is also a board member and oversees a program to provide free fitness camps for local youths, an ideal position for such an avid participant in sports activities. He also donates funds to provide necessary items for Family and Children Treatment of Southern Nevada. But the organization that has most captured the heart and spirit of Dr. Wilkes is Safe Nest, which provides emergency shelter for abused women.
We hear that you’ve been called “an angel without wings” by the recreation coordinator at Safe Nest for your efforts at the center.
“Wow, not sure I’m an angel, but I have been able to connect with the women and children from Safe Nest and show them that there are good men in the world that want nothing from them except for them to be safe and happy and whole. It means a lot to both me and the entire staff at Desert Perinatal Associates.”
You have a unique way of greeting your patients and putting them at ease on their initial visit. Care to share?
“Well, it’s an ice breaker. I usually say ‘Hi, I’m Dr. Wilkes. Thank you for letting me have your baby.’ By the time the women leave, they’re smiling and laughing.”
You are really passionate about your work. Would you say you love your job?
“I am way too lazy to have a ‘job.’ I love what I do, and even with the long hours and emotional demands, I wouldn’t trade my life for anybody else’s. I’m passionate about pretty much everything I do. If I am not passionate about it, I stop doing it.”
You have firsthand knowledge about raising and caring for children outside of your practice. You’re a dad of three?
“Yes, I share three amazing kids – Katie, Ryan and Charlotte – with my ex-wife Megan, who is still the most amazing thing that has happened to me, and she makes me laugh every day. They know that I love them unconditionally, and all I want is for them to be happy.”
Giving back and being an influence for your children is a big deal to you.
“I’ve been a resident for over 40 years and still have friends here from kindergarten. Giving back to a community that has given so much to my family and me is an honor.”
[…] To read the Zip Code Magazine article in it’s entirety click on the this link: Your Neighbor – Dr. Wilkes […]