Message from the PAOF Chair

“No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted” said the Greek philosopher, Aesop. People are always asking me how I stay positive in these challenging times, as now the Delta variant of COVID-19 is circling the globe.

My simple answer is my family, friends and colleagues. By helping each other, we are helping ourselves. By lifting up a family member, friend or colleague, we are lifting up ourselves.

Endurance is a vital attribute for all of us to deal with the challenges of this pandemic. Whether it is at the individual level or at the organizational level, we have to reach to the inner sources of endurance to continue forward. The Pan-American has been capable of dealing with these challenges, thanks to the amazing support of its members.

As an organization, we reflect on what our members are and what shining examples we have seen. Over and over, we have seen such generosity of time, effort, and donations. I think this is one of the greatest strengths of our organization when I see the profound generosity and resources that have come forward during this most difficult time.

We must focus on the positive things, however small. We must focus on moving forward and trying to help those who are encountering even more difficult circumstances.

I close this message with wishing you all well. Take care and stay connected. Help your families and senior citizens. Get vaccinated. Wash your hands. Use a mask and observe social distancing. If you feel ill, stay at home. Only by working together will we surmount this challenge.

Sincerely,

Jorge E. Valdez MD PhD

Chair
Pan-American Ophthalmological Foundation (PAOF)