Cape Fear Valley Health Foundation’s Caduceus Society recently honored several providers when Cape Fear Valley Health Medical Staff Services held its 2025 Doctors’ Day celebration at the Center for Medical Education and Neuroscience Institute. Three awards were presented – Advanced Practice Provider (APP) of the Year, Resident of the Year and Physician of the Year. The Caduceus Society honors the legacy of physicians in the community while providing resources that strengthen the shared vision of the medical staff.

Physician of the Year

The Physician of the Year award was given to two doctors, Sanford Hawkins-Rivers, MD and Fred Caruso, MD. 

Dr. Hawkins is a surgeon with Harnett Surgical Associates. His nomination described him as selfless, sincere and compassionate, with a reputation that draws patients to seek him out for their surgeries. He received his medical degree from Michigan State University and completed his residency at University of Illinois Hospital. He also completed a fellowship at Baylor College of Medicine.

Dr. Caruso is a pediatric radiologist. His nomination praised his commitment to patients, visitors, family and fellow coworkers and his efforts to pass along his teachings to resident physicians. He received his medical degree from University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey and his residency at Fitzsimmons Army Medical Center in Aurora, Colo. He also completed a fellowship at Children’s Hospital in Denver, Colo.

Resident of the Year

Thomas Bainter, MD is a psychiatry resident and has been the Chief Resident of Psychiatry for two years. In his nomination, he is described as an exceptional physician who provides the highest level of care and expertise to his patients. Next year, he will start a fellowship in Geriatric Psychiatry at Duke. He received his medical degree from Nebraska College of Medicine.

APP of the Year

Family Nurse Practitioner Ashley Marlowe practices at Bladen Medical Associates in Elizabethtown.

She is lauded in her nomination for her emphasis on patient-centered care and for going the extra mile to make sure her patients are cared for. Marlowe holds a master’s degree in nursing from University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill.