Burlingame names its 2023 Citizen of the Year

“Actually, he brought my daughter into the world,” Van Etten said, remarking on Kasuga’s personal connections to many Burlingame residents.

Kasuga also volunteered as a pediatric doctor at the Samaritan House free clinic, led support groups for new parents and taught sex education at Our Lady of Angels School in Burlingame. After his retirement, he began working with the Central County Fire Department community emergency response team, where he still serves as program coordinator.

“I first heard about Dr. Kasuga on the playgrounds, talking with other moms — ‘Who are the good pediatricians around here?’” Burlingame Vice Mayor Emily Beach said. “This guy is a legend.”

Beach also lauded Kasuga’s continued participation in emergency preparedness. He has organized training exercises for emergency preparedness in tandem with the county and took charge of Burlingame’s Neighborhood Network, working to develop a radio communications network in case of disaster.

“This gentleman has been keeping our families healthy and safe, not only in the doctor’s office, but in our preparedness, at the Red Cross, in emotional support that you’ve offered for so many families,” she said.

He’s being honored with the award because of his continued commitment not only to his career and family, but to the city as a whole, Beach said.

“Rik could have said, ‘I’m a busy pediatrician, and I’m a dad. I’ve got a lot to do. I don’t have time to volunteer,’” she said. “But you have given back so much, and it’s made our community so much stronger.”

In his acceptance speech, Kasuga thanked his family, including his wife, Aria, and said fatherhood had shaped his perspective on community and life.

“Being a parent to my son and daughter has made me humble as to the power of love,” he said.

As a medical student, he was taught that patients will tell you their diagnosis — meaning that if one listens, oftentimes you will be able to determine what’s wrong, Kasuga said.

“However, you need to take the time to listen to their entire stories. An added benefit is that if patients feel their stories are being heard, that’s the first step to their healing,” he said. “In part, I think some of my success in this community has been my inclination to listen. Listen to my patients, my colleagues, my friends and family and my fellow community members.”

Kasuga encouraged others to engage and listen to one another’s stories.

“I encourage you to listen to one another, learn a lot and enjoy your journey a little more,” he said.