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Beauty of Sight Provides Wet Labs to Surgeons
The American Academy of Ophthalmology held its annual meeting at McCormick Place in Chicago from October 18th to the 21st. This premier event brought together international ophthalmologists and medical students for various lectures, courses, and hands-on labs led by esteemed experts worldwide.
The Beauty of Sight team was honored to present six Wet Lab sessions over two days, with instruction from six prominent Bascom Palmer Eye Institute (BPEI) doctors. Each session included a lecture and an hour of hands-on practice using human corneal grafts.
Our Wet Lab instructors included:
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Sander R. Dubovy, M.D. – DMEK from the Eye Bank Perspective
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Alfonso L. Sabater, M.D., Ph.D. – DMEK Pearls for Success
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Ellen Koo, M.D. – Mastering the DMEK Procedure
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Angela Y. Zhu, M.D. – Step-by-Step DALK
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Jaime D. Martinez, M.D. – DALK: Mastering the Big Bubble
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Florence Cabot, M.D. – DALK Simplified
In addition to the Wet Labs, our team actively educated attendees about the critical work of the eye bank and its role in supporting vision restoration. Beauty of Sight representatives on-site included:
- Elizabeth Fout, Executive Director
- William Buras, Director of Program and Business Development
- Concetta Triglia, Director of Laboratory Services
- Dahiana De Francisco, Communications Manager
The Beauty of Sight team was proud to share our expertise and advance our mission at this prestigious event, reinforcing the vital role of eye banking in ophthalmology and supporting our vision of Creating a World Without Blindness.
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Advancing Corneal Transplant Surgery with PRGF
Beauty of Sight is thrilled to announce our participation in an exciting new clinical trial: PRGF-Assisted Corneal Transplant Surgery. This groundbreaking study, led by Bascom Palmer Eye Institute’s Dr. Alfonso Sabater, will assess the effectiveness of a promising new approach in corneal transplants, utilizing PRGF (Plasma Rich in Growth Factors) technology. PRGF-assisted transplantation involves immersing the donor cornea in a plasma solution derived from the recipient’s blood.
Preliminary research supported by Beauty of Sight and initial trials in Colombia suggests that this innovative technique helps protect critical endothelial cells during surgery, potentially extending the longevity of the transplanted cornea.
As part of this study, Beauty of Sight will perform the PRGF-assisted procedure for all enrolled recipients, contributing to critical research that could shape the future of corneal transplant success. We invite you to support this vital research and help advance the science of vision restoration by donating to Beauty of Sight.
Your support will fuel our mission to enhance sight and improve lives.
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A Vision of Hope: Krissy Kissoon’s Journey with Beauty of Sight
Krissy Kissoon, a 42-year-old single mother and Auditor in the Energy Industry based in the Caribbean, has faced an extraordinary journey toward regaining her sight. In February 2017, she began to lose her vision due to a severe eye condition, leaving her unable to recognize herself, her son, or the world around her. Krissy's resilience and hope carried her forward as she sought treatment at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute in Miami, where she found a dedicated medical team and life-changing advancements.
In 2018, Krissy received her first corneal transplant in her left eye, which remains strong six years later. Between 2019 and 2021, she underwent three additional transplants in her right eye, resulting in a remarkable transformation of her life. With her vision restored, Krissy has reclaimed her independence—she can work, drive, care for her son, and engage in activities that bring her joy.
Throughout her journey, Krissy has undergone around 21 eye surgeries, including corneal transplants, glaucoma tube procedures, intraocular lens implants, and vitrectomies. She continues to face daily challenges, but her gratitude for the gift of sight is boundless. Her heartfelt appreciation extends to the Beauty of Sight eye bank, her cornea donors and their families, and her devoted medical team at Bascom Palmer Eye Institute—including Dr. Guillermo Amescua, Dr. Luis Vasquez, Dr. Jaynath Shridhar, and Dr. Basil Williams.
As we observe Eye Donation Month 2024, Krissy’s story stands as a testament to resilience, the power of generosity, and the impact of eye donation. With another corneal transplant scheduled for January 2025, she remains committed to her journey, grounded in faith and a belief that all things are possible.
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Remembering Michael: A Legacy of Love and Generosity
Earlier this year, Michael passed away, leaving behind a profound legacy that continues to impact lives. His wife recently shared her heartfelt reflections on his life and her comfort in knowing that Michael's selflessness has given others hope and a renewed vision. "Knowing that someone sees the world through Michael's gift of sight brings me a deep sense of peace," she expressed. "It's as though he's still looking at us, sharing his worldview."
Michael was a beloved and accomplished figure in Boca Raton. A successful entrepreneur, he co-founded Holloways Irish Pub in 1999, an establishment that quickly became a community favorite. Ten years later, the success of their first pub inspired Michael and his wife to open a second location, both of which are still thriving today, a testament to his passion and dedication.
Born on June 24, 1955, Michael grew up in California with three sisters. After studying at USC, he built an impressive career as an executive chef. A devoted father who lovingly raised his stepdaughter, Shirley, Michael was known for his warmth, humor, and positive outlook. He was an ardent Los Angeles Dodgers fan with a contagious sense of joy.
"Michael showed me how to be positive and enjoy life," his wife shared, reflecting on their 26 years of marriage. "He will be truly missed, but I am comforted in knowing that his spirit lives on, not only through his gift of sight but through the love and laughter he shared with us all."
Michael's generosity and kindness have created a lasting impact, not only in the lives of those who knew him but also in the life of someone who now sees the world through his eyes. His legacy is a beautiful reminder of the profound difference one person can make.
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SAVE THE DATE - DECEMBER 3, 2024
Beauty of Sight is committed to restoring sight in our community and creating brighter futures one life at a time. As we approach Giving Tuesday, we invite you to join us in celebrating the transformation our recipients, like cornea transplant recipient Nolan, experienced. His renewed vision brings a special glow to Thanksgiving this season; with your support, we can continue giving others the Beauty of Sight.
Be a part of the joy and help us kick off our #GivingTuesday. Together, let’s make this season truly shine!
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We are constructing a new facility in Miami's Health District to continue our commitment to delivering the highest quality ophthalmic services and pioneering groundbreaking research. Plans for the facility include world-class GMP laboratories and processing rooms, a state-of-the-art education and training center, and a dedicated research space.
Our new home will allow us to expand our programs dedicated to restoring sight and accelerate our research on developing new treatments and cures for ophthalmic diseases.
Your support will help us expand our sight-saving programs, provide unparalleled care to those in need, and advance groundbreaking research that has the potential to transform lives.
| | Please donate today to support our programs, including our Gratis Corneal Tissue, Serum Tears Assistance, and Research programs! | | | | |
