Dr. Paton believed that bringing training where it is needed most would help local eye care teams build the skills to save sight in their communities—a principle that still guides our work today.
Dr. Paton was born in Baltimore, Maryland, in August 1930 and was the son of a prominent ophthalmologist, Richard Paton, founder of the world’s first eye bank in 1946.
Dr. Paton believed that bringing training where it is needed most would help local eye care teams build the skills to save sight in their communities—a principle that still guides our work today.
Dr. Paton was born in Baltimore, Maryland, in August 1930 and was the son of a prominent ophthalmologist, Richard Paton, founder of the world’s first eye bank in 1946.
Dr. Hunter Cherwek, our Vice President of Clinical Services and Technologies, voiced a similar admiration: “Dr. Paton had an incredible life and career that inspired so many people, including me. He was a true pioneer in the field of global ophthalmology, and every time I met with him, I was blown away by his energy and the ideas he had to address global eye health.”
A talented storyteller and passionate educator, Dr. Paton chronicled his extraordinary journey in his memoir, Second Sight: Views from an Eye Doctor’s Odyssey. The book reflects his belief that sight-saving care should be accessible to all and that teaching others and advocating for better eye care would improve the lives of millions of people.
Dr. Paton’s work continues to influence generations of ophthalmologists and health professionals across the globe. His contributions have restored sight to countless people and inspired new standards of collaboration, education, and compassion in global health.
Gene Helveston, former Orbis Volunteer Faculty member and Orbis Cybersight founder told us: “David Paton was a renowned ophthalmologist who was a brilliant surgeon, teacher, and foremost, a visionary—a man capable of transforming a dream into reality. Paton’s energy was instrumental in the launch of the first Flying Eye Hospital and would introduce modern eye surgery to thousands of doctors who would be better equipped to treat millions of patients worldwide. Forty-three years later, the third-generation Flying Eye Hospital continues to improve access to quality eye care globally, while remaining a testimony to the vision of Dr. David Paton, one of the key people who made Orbis happen.”
The Orbis community mourns his loss and celebrates his extraordinary life. His legacy endures in the lives of thousands of eye care professionals and millions of people with restored vision around the world.
