West Islip, NY – The Lions Eye Bank of Long Island recently presented Good Samaritan Hospital Medical Center with a certificate in recognition of their commitment in helping to restore the sight of those who are visually impaired due to corneal disease. Good Samaritan was acknowledged for its outstanding efforts in helping families to donate the eyes of deceased loved ones. The Lions Eye Bank, which is HIPAA compliant, coordinates the necessary activities to procure donated eye tissue and ensure that it meets standards for transplantation. Jan Schichtel, LCSW, In-service Coordinator of the Lions Eye Bank of Long Island, stated, “The most important part of eye donations is families giving the gift of love, so others can be given the gift of sight.” More than 32,000 people in North America had their sight restored last year through corneal transplant surgery.

The Lions Eye Bank is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of this type of donation and encourages you to join the New York State Donor Registry the next time you renew your driver’s license.

Left to Right: Director of Peri-Operative and Support Services Sharon Kennish, RN, Director of Infection Control Joan Reilly, RN, Director of Nursing Education and Research Marilyn Fiasconaro, RN, Clinical Director of Emergency Department and Medical Nursing Patricia Kurz, RN, Lions Eye Bank’s Jan Schichtel, LCSW, and Senior Vice President of Nursing Patricia Hogan, RN.

For information, call (631) 376-4444.