welcoming new LEADERSHIP welcoming new LEADERSHIP

Eye banks like Saving Sight rely on medical directors to ensure operations meet regulatory standards.

On July 1, 2024, Saving Sight welcomed Dr. Michelle Boyce and Dr. Chris Ketcherside to the team, joining Drs. Martin de la Presa and Gregg Berdy. These additions follow the retirement of longtime medical director Dr. Joseph Tauber.

SAVING SIGHT’S EXPANDED MEDICAL DIRECTOR TEAM

Dr. Michelle Boyce, Associate Medical Director, is a board-certified ophthalmologist specializing in cataract surgery, refractive surgery, and corneal eye disease at Moyes Eye Center in Kansas City. She brings a wealth of experience from her training at St. Louis University School of Medicine and her fellowship at the University of Iowa. She is excited about advancing Saving Sight’s reputation and is Saving Sight’s first female medical director.

Dr. Martin de la Presa, Associate Medical Director, has served as Associate Medical Director since 2022. As a surgeon at Grene Vision Group, his expertise lies in corneal, cataract, and glaucoma surgeries. He believes in the vital role physicians play in ensuring eye donations are fully utilized for patients in need.

Dr. Chris Ketcherside, Medical Director is a specialist in LASIK and corneal transplants at Kansas City Eye Clinic. Discussing the role of medical directors, Dr. Ketcherside says, “We bridge the clinic, the operating room, and the patients themselves. We bring current issues and potential needs to the eye banking community, helping us work together to anticipate and resolve challenges.”

Dr. Gregg Berdy, Medical Director, has been a leader at Saving Sight since he first joined the board of directors in 1992, later serving as co-medical director with Dr. Tauber. Reflecting on the impact of eye donation, Dr. Berdy remarked, “What you must remember is that each transplant originates from a person and family who chose to donate, which is at the heart of everything. Every case reminds me of how special that is.”

At Saving Sight, our mission to change lives by saving sight is supported by a group of passionate and dedicated Board Members. They play a crucial role in guiding our efforts and bringing different perspectives and expertise to our organization.

SAVING SIGHT’S NEW BOARD MEMBERS

Jonathan Smith, a community board member, has a background in public health and a passion for health equity. Having grown up in Detroit and moved to Kansas in 2013, Jonathan has been involved in federally qualified health centers, ensuring that underserved communities receive the care they need. Jonathan is eager to learn and collaborate with the board, bringing fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to help Saving Sight fulfill its mission.

CC Sherl Horton joins the board as the Missouri Lions Council Chair for a oneyear term. With a background in financial management, Sherl has served in various roles, including treasurer, secretary, and district governor within the Lions organization. Her extensive experience in these positions equips her with the skills and knowledge to contribute significantly to our board and our mission.

VCC Tina Anderson is joining our board for a one-year term as Missouri Lions Vice Council Chair. She brings a strong commitment to community service and a wealth of experience. Her dedication to improving the lives of those in need aligns with our mission at Saving Sight.

“I’ve always found joy in serving my community,” VCC Tina said. “I’m excited about the opportunity to work with Saving Sight. It allows me to contribute to a mission that’s close to my heart.”

PCC Ron Campbell returns to our board, bringing with him a wealth of experience from his previous terms (2017-2019) and his service on our honorary board. Representing Lions Multiple District M-4, PCC Ron is excited to start his first three-year term with renewed energy and dedication. His background in leadership within the Lions organization, including serving as the Missouri Lions Council Chair, uniquely positions him to contribute to our mission.