Ryan Legacy Strong in China

It was my honor to participate in the International Retina Conference at the distinguished Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center in southeast China. The Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center (ZOC) is a one of the best eye institutes in all of China and is a key partner and collaborator for the Doheny Eye Institute.

We have recently collaborated to establish the Zhongshan Image Reading Center, which is already actively conducting research studies. The ZOC is also on the cusp of opening a new state-of-the-art facility that will increase its capacity to serve patients and advance research in important ways. We will continue to partner with the Center, and we look forward to deepening these relationships around retina advances.

A few days later, many colleagues gathered in Beijing to honor the legacy of Dr. Steve Ryan. Through an extensive network of former Doheny fellows, collaborators and colleagues, Dr. Ryan’s vision and work drives much of the current endeavor in the field today in China. His impact and far-reaching accomplishments in cultivating and supporting international collaboration to advance our work cannot be overstated.

I was reminded of Dr. Ryan’s influence and leadership as I listened to tributes and connected with friends and peers, all inspired to make improvements for patients and research in China by Doheny’s towering leader of many years. I was happy to be present as my predecessor, Dr. Steve Ryan, was remembered eloquently with words; but moreover, I know he is remembered in the good work that is done to improve vision that happens around the world every day.

All of these connections, in China and beyond, strengthen the foundations of our mission at Doheny Eye Institute, our global networks, and our ability to move the work forward in the year to come.