Today, he’s one of Hawaii’s preeminent fertility doctors, but four decades ago, Thomas Kosasa, MD, was a gynecological resident under his mentor, Raymond J. Reilly, MD.

“Dr. Reilly taught us impeccable surgical techniques and, most importantly, to develop a rhythm to our surgical procedures,” Kosasa says.

Dr. Reilly was equally dedicated to trainees outside the operating room. “He took me skiing on weekends off, and was fond of sharing life advice,” says Kosasa. “In my role as a professor, I try to train residents and students in the same kind manner he taught me.”

In honor of Dr. Reilly’s 47-year tenure, the Brigham and Women’s Hospital Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology is raising funds to endow a fellowship in his name. Kosasa made a pivotal gift, alongside other colleagues and grateful patients whose lives Dr. Reilly has touched, in an effort to raise $1 million.

“From providing compassionate care to thousands of women and their families, to mentoring many OB/GYN trainees, to pioneering treatments that helped change lives, Dr. Reilly has been one of the hospital’s shining stars,” says Robert Barbieri, MD, BWH’s chair of obstetrics and gynecology and reproductive biology. “This fellowship will lay the foundation to honor Dr. Reilly’s legacy—now and in the future.”

True to form, Dr. Reilly most appreciates the fellowship will benefit future surgeons. “Passing on knowledge and watching residents blossom is my great joy,” he says. “Our residents are all top notch; they go on to become professors and department chairs across the country.”

He is also grateful to Dr. Kosasa, his former mentee, for giving in his honor. “He was an outstanding resident and surgeon,” Dr. Reilly says. “He is quite humble and elegant—just a superb person.”