Hank Edelhauser, PhD, Emory University, (l) was presented with the Innovation and Research Award, and Lewis Groden, MD (r), University of South Florida, was presented with the Light of Sight Award at the Lions Eye Institute for Transplant & Research’s 2012 Eye Ball Gala.
TAMPA, Fla.—Hundreds of people gathered to help raise approximately $125,000 during the 2012 Eye Ball Gala, which was hosted by The Lions Eye Institute for Transplant & Research (LEITR) and took place on Oct. 6 at T. Pepin’s Hospitality Centre in Tampa. LEITR raised awareness for the more than 285 million blind and visually impaired people throughout the world and brings the organization one step closer to unlocking the cure for blindness.

Throughout the night, LEITR showcased the need for ocular advancements as well as the research LEITR is pioneering to help the blind and visually impaired. Several guest speakers shared their stories, including those currently battling eye disease and corneal transplant recipients whose sight is restored thanks to LEITR.

LEITR honored two professionals dedicated to advancing ocular research. Lewis R. Groden, MD was presented with the Light of Sight Award. Dr. Groden is a leading refractive surgeon and faculty at the University of South Florida, Department of Ophthalmology, where he teaches upcoming eye surgeons about advances in laser vision correction. Henry F. Edelhauser, PhD was also honored with the Innovation and Research Award. Dr. Edelhauser helps lead ocular research at Emory University in Atlanta, Ga. and serves on LEITR’s research advisory board.

“This event is our annual platform to show everyone the global impact that blindness and visual impairments have on people of all ages, genders and ethnicities,” said Jason Woody, president and CEO of LEITR.  ■

akarp@jobson.com