What we do
Our mission is to help eradicate Glaucoma and other eye blindness and alleviate morbidity caused by cataracts, cornea, and other eye diseases. We are dedicated to bringing individuals from blindness and chronic eye pain to useful, productive lives in underdeveloped countries where such services are unavailable, as well as serving the underserved in our own country who lack access to effective eye treatments.
We have been a beacon of hope for countless individuals in need. Through our unwavering dedication, over 440 eyes have been treated via cataract surgery and corneal transplant procedures, with an estimated face value exceeding 2 million dollars. Each surgery represents a triumph of compassion over adversity, a testament to the transformative power of sight restoration. As we continue our mission, we remain steadfast in our commitment to bringing light to the lives of those who need it most.
Medio-Surgical Procedures
Dr. Martinez and our dedicated surgical team conduct missions to developing countries where we perform life-changing ophthalmic surgeries. These missions are a beacon of hope for individuals who suffer from vision impairment caused by cataracts and corneal diseases. Through meticulous surgical interventions, we strive to restore sight and empower individuals to reclaim their independence and quality of life.
Cataract Surgery
Cataracts cloud the eye’s natural lens, causing vision to become progressively blurred and obscured. Cataracts represent a significant barrier to daily activities and economic opportunities for many in underserved communities. At the Visionary Foundation, we specialize in cataract surgery, a transformative procedure involving removing and replacing the cloudy lens with a clear artificial lens. We have performed over 300 cataract surgeries and implanted high-quality artificial lenses thanks to many of our donors. With each surgery, we not only restore vision but also renew hope and vitality, allowing individuals to engage fully once again in their lives and communities.
Corneal Transplant
The cornea is the clear, dome-shaped surface that covers the front of the eye. Any damage or disease affecting the cornea can lead to significant vision loss and impairment, making it difficult for individuals to see the world clearly. To help those suffering from corneal diseases, corneal transplant surgery, known as keratoplasty, is performed. This delicate procedure replaces a damaged or diseased cornea with healthy donor tissue, offering a lifeline to those in need. The Visionary Foundation runs a corneal transplant program that extends the gift of sight to individuals who have long endured the shadows of visual impairment. For people in first-world countries, this surgery can be a substantial economic burden, let alone those in third-world countries. However, through donated corneal tissue, the Visionary Foundation has performed 98 successful corneal transplants, with a face value of $1,000,000.00 USD.
Research
Recently, the Foundation expanded its efforts to include research on preventing and treating common ocular diseases, including dry eye disease. Recognizing the importance of advancing knowledge and innovation in treating vision-related disorders, we have embarked on a journey of discovery to enhance patient treatments & refine surgical techniques.
Dr. Martinez & Dr. Sandra Lora Cremers led a groundbreaking study in 2018 investigating various treatment options for Dry Eye Disease, including using autologous stem cells to regenerate meibomian and lacrimal glands. Our research highlights the debilitating impact of dry eye disease. It explores innovative therapies like Meibomian Gland Probing and Intense Pulse Light therapy, offering hope for long-term relief. Contributions to the Foundation support these research efforts, striving towards a future where ocular diseases no longer threaten vision and well-being.
Together with our partners and donors, we will continue to push the boundaries of knowledge and innovation, paving the way for a future where blindness is no longer a barrier to human potential.