Jim Rathmann donates in memory of his mother, Elsie

by Margaret Doyle

Jim Rathmann believes that giving back is important. In fact, he is following the example of his role model mother Elsie, who was a patient of Jacob Wilensky, MD, Professor of Ophthalmology (pictured at right). Mr. Rathmann donates annually to the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences in tribute to his mother’s memory.

“In 1990 my mother developed serious glaucoma issues,” recalls Mr. Rathmann. As her condition worsened, Elsie’s local doctors in suburban Skokie recommended that she seek the expertise of UIC.

“My mother was a patient of Dr. Wilensky’s for a number of years,” says Mr. Rathmann. “We had such good treatment, and pretty good success.” He also raves about the staff. “The staff was so nice to my mother, and treated her so well.”

While under Dr. Wilensky’s care Elsie participated in a glaucoma study, hoping to help in the research of this debilitating eye disease. Over the years her condition deteriorated, and she lost one of her eyes. When Elsie passed in 1998, she donated her remaining eye to research.

“She wanted to help others with glaucoma,” notes Mr. Rathmann. Today, he continues his mother’s spirit of giving. “My mother had years of community service,” says Mr. Rathmann. “As I get older I realize that it’s good to give back to communities and services that help others.”

Mr. Rathmann makes a modest contribution in memory of his mother every year, with the donation earmarked for Dr. Wilensky “to recognize his years of dedicated service.” Mr. Rathmann notes that he has followed the work of Dr. Wilensky and has seen the great expansion that’s taken place at UIC.

“A little support from everyone can make a difference,” says Mr. Rathmann.

James T. Reid donates in appreciation of stellar patient care

by Margaret Doyle

James T. Reid is a dedicated patient of William Mieler, MD, Director of the Ocular Oncology Clinic in Retina Service (pictured at right). In fact, he has followed him from one institution to another. But first Mr. Reid did his homework.

Dr. Mieler diagnosed Mr. Reid with epiretinal membrane six years ago while he was a physician at the University of Chicago. But as a new patient, Mr. Reid decided to seek a second opinion. He was planning a trip to Florida and his sister happened to sit on the board of the University of Miami’s esteemed Bascom Palmer Eye Institute. While in Florida, Mr. Reid met with a doctor at the Institute and told him that he was seeing Dr. Mieler back in Chicago.

“He said, ‘You’ve got the best guy,’” recalls Mr. Reid.

Confidently moving forward with his treatment, Dr. Mieler operated on Mr. Reid’s right eye at the University of Chicago. When Dr. Mieler relocated to UIC, Mr. Reid followed and underwent surgery on his left eye. Mr. Reid explains that the major cause of epiretinal membrane is diabetes. He adds that the condition creates a deflection in the eyesight, resulting in distorted wavy lines when trying to read.

Today Mr. Reid is still a patient of Dr. Mieler. He says that although his left eye is in good shape, his right eye still has deflection and swelling in the retina. He comes to UIC for regular treatments, noting that “everyone there is terrific.” He also makes it a point to donate.

“The main reason I give is to help support the departments of the institutions that are helping to keep me alive and active,” says Mr. Reid.

He explains that he gives in honor of Dr. Mieler to help out where needed in the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, whether it’s for education or cutting-edge medical devices.

“I think Dr. Mieler is very dedicated, and an exceptional talent,” adds Mr. Reid.

UIC alum Veeral S. Sheth remembers his roots

by Margaret Doyle, March 23, 2012

Veeral S. Sheth, MD, has good memories of his time spent at UIC. He attended undergraduate and medical school here (where he happened to meet his wife, Monica). And in 2005 he returned to do his residency at the Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary (IEEI), serving as chief resident in 2008. Today, Dr. Sheth is a successful doctor who specializes in diseases of the retina and oversees Retina Services for four hospitals in the Chicago-area NorthShore University HealthSystem. Yet despite his busy career, Dr. Sheth takes time to donate to UIC’s Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences.

“UIC is a place where I spent a lot of time,” recalls Dr. Sheth, “a total of 10 years.”

Dr. Sheth notes that he had a number of important mentors while training at the IEEI. He points to Michael Shapiro, MD, as the doctor who steered his career in the direction of retinal surgery. And he admires Joel Sugar, MD, who he trained with surgically, as a pioneer in his field who has a rich 30-year history with the IEEI. But Dimitri Azar, MD, MBA, former Head of the Department of Ophthalmology and now Dean of UIC’s College of Medicine, was a real game changer for Dr. Sheth.

“When Dimitri Azar came to UIC he brought an incredible energy,” recalls Dr. Sheth. “His drive and creativity were inspirational for me. UIC was back on the map and we needed to capitalize on that movement and energy. It was a snowball effect that I wanted to contribute to.”

One of the ways that Dr. Sheth continues to contribute to UIC’s successes is by donating. He notes that giving to a state institution is particularly important, as they often have a lack of donors.

“As far as institutions go, UIC is nationally recognized,” says Dr. Sheth. “The best and brightest go to train at the IEEI, and the best ophthalmologists come out of UIC.”

Dr. Sheth notes that his donations are earmarked for the Joel Sugar MD Endowed Professorship, which funds research and educational activities within the visual sciences.

“A world-class institution like this needs support from its alumni,” notes Dr. Sheth.

Click here to learn about ways that you can give or call 312-996-6591.