We are a generous supporter of Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School’s Institute of Ophthalmology and Visual Science (IOVS), donated $36,000 for the purchase of an Endo Optiks system that incorporates a viewing and laser delivery system to allow surgeons to treat patients with blinding eye diseases ranging from glaucoma to retinal detachment.

“We are all grateful to the Lions for this generous donation. This equipment enables us to help patients with complex surgical conditions using a safer approach”, said Dr. Marco Zarbin, professor and chair, IOVS.

“Our cases tend to be complex and include patients with retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), traumatic retinal detachment, congenital glaucoma and congenital cataract. This equipment is very important for our clinical care mission.

Dr. Marco Zarbin, far left, and Rob Fechtner with Former Executive Director James Hynes,
and Executive Director Melvyn Bray demonstrating the "State-of-the-Art" Endo Optiks System that the LERF-NJ funded in 2011

“The IOVS is a rich asset to the citizens of New Jersey," explained Jim Hynes,Former Executive Director of LERF. "It provides cutting edge research, clinical practices and educational programs. We are pleased to continue our support by funding efforts to find a cure for eye diseases.”

The LERF-NJ is a non-profit, volunteer run organization associated with Lions Club International and has similar goals, but is a separate and distinct organization dedicated to promoting eye health and research here in New Jersey. As explained in the following video, by 2002 LERF President, Steven E. Naples, the foundation consists of 25 Trustees (All Lions Members) from the five districts here in New Jersey, and the five district governors.

In 2014 the Board of Trustees was reorganized into three districts, with Executive Director Jim Hynes presiding. Late this year, Jim stepped down for health reasons and Melvyn Bray was named his successor. The link to our Board of Trustees reflects the new organization.

Our primary purpose is to raise monies used to fund the Lions Eye Reasearch Foundation. The Foundation uses these funds exclusively for eye disease treatment, research, and sight conservation. The Alfonse Cinotti Chair of Opthalmology at Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School (formerly UMDNJ) was funded by the Foundation to promote and stimulate eye research in the prevention of the occurrence of eye disease and defects.