As Ophthalmologist-in-Chief of University Health Network, Dr. Robert Devenyi leads the largest vision centre in Canada. Along with providing exceptional patient care, the Donald K. Johnson Eye Centre is dedicated to ophthalmology education and research. It is home to the country’s largest ophthalmology training program and is home to the only ophthalmology clinician-scientist in Canada. Recognized leaders in their fields, the eye specialists here are at the forefront of state-of-the-art ophthalmology. The department includes experts from all major subspecialties, including vitreoretinal surgery, medical retina, cornea and external disease, glaucoma, neuro-ophthalmology, adult strabismus and ocular genetics. The Vision Science Research program – under the direction of Dr. Martin Steinbach – focuses on molecular genetics of blinding eye diseases such as glaucoma and cataracts; corneal and lens disorders; eye movement control mechanisms; and neuronal damage.

This year was an exciting time for the Donald K. Johnson Eye Centre. With the enthusiasm and motivation of Vision Campaign Chair Donald K. Johnson and his committed Campaign Cabinet, the campaign is rapidly approaching its $15 million goal.

The Inspiration behind the Donald K. Johnson Eye Centre
Toronto Western Hospital celebrated a major milestone in November 2007, with the announcement of a $5 million gift from Board Member and Vision Champion Donald K. Johnson. For almost 20 years, Don has been part of an effort to create a world-leading vision institute in Canada. He soon learned that the best place for that was right here at Toronto Western Hospital. “The Vision Program at TWH has the critical combination of a large patient base, outstanding clinicians and a comprehensive research program. It has the potential to become the top eye disease centre in North America,” he says.

His donation names the Donald K. Johnson Eye Centre and creates the Donald K. Johnson and Anna McCowan-Johnson Eye Research Laboratory in the new Krembil Discovery Centre. It will also fund an endowed Chair to recruit a world-leading scientist in vision research.

For over 10 years, Don lobbied the federal government to eliminate the capital gains tax on gifts of appreciated securities, and it finally happened in the 2006 budget, facilitating this donation. He is determined to raise $15 million for the Vision Campaign.