On July 31, 2010, the UC San Diego Shiley Eye Institute sadly lost its compassionate and generous benefactor, Donald P. Shiley. Donald Shiley, engineer, medical device inventor and entrepreneur, recognized the need for a world class eye center in San Diego. In 1990, he and his wife Darlene donated the funds to create a comprehensive eye care facility where top ophthalmologists would treat patients, conduct research and train the next generation of leaders in eye care and vision research. "The Shiley Eye Institute at UC San Diego will always be a priority for us," said Mr. Shiley.
The Shileys' personal experience with vision impairment subsequently led them to support even more programs at the Shiley Eye Institute. Whether providing gifts for research, innovative community outreach programs for children and seniors, additional space for patient care and research as the Institute grew or simply to offer wise counsel and represent us at community functions, Donald Shiley was the Shiley Eye Institute.
Mr. Shiley passed away in San Diego after several years of failing health. To honor him, Darlene Shiley completed the funding for the Stuart I. Brown, M.D. Chair in Ophthalmology in Memory of Donald P. Shiley. According to Robert N. Weinreb, M.D., Director of the Shiley Eye Institute and Chairman of the Department of Ophthalmology, "The generosity of Darlene Shiley perpetuates Donald's legacy and his wish to house a world class eye center in San Diego. The impact of the Shileys on the Department of Ophthalmology at UC San Diego and in southern California, as well as nationally and globally is far reaching. "Donald Shiley will long be remembered for giving hope to countless visually challenged individuals and helping to improve their quality of life", added Dr. Weinreb.
*Photo by Eduardo Contreras/San Diego Union-Tribune. Copyright 2012 San Diego Union-Tribune
