Invitation to Impact UCSF Vision Science with a Transformative Gift

The Crucial Role of Basic Science Research
The trajectory of ophthalmic care is driven by foundational work in basic science research. From unraveling the mysteries of eye diseases to creating transformative treatments and diagnostics, the contributions of basic research are indispensable. They not only save and enhance sight but also prevent vision loss, ensuring healthier lives for millions.

A Call to Action: Supporting UCSF Vision Research Initiative
Today, we invite you to join us in an ambitious endeavor—the creation of the UCSF Vision Research Initiative. We have launched a campaign to raise a total of $10 million to recruit and equip world-class scientists in fields such as artificial intelligence/data science, regenerative medicine, and genetics.

Each scientist will need an estimated $2 million in start-up funding to establish, equip, and staff their laboratories, thereby advancing their cutting-edge research. We have an immediate need to hire two basic scientists in the coming months.

These experts will lead the way in developing novel treatments based on solid understanding of disease mechanisms through gene editing, neuroprotection, and restorative treatments such as regenerative medicine, optogenetics and prosthetics that may one day cure forms of blindness currently deemed irreversible.

Creation of this center will support UCSF in achieving our goal to be the number one Ophthalmology department in the country in vision research. We are currently ranked second nationally in NIH funding, and only separated from the first place position by a few hundred thousand dollars. With additional support we can secure our position as leaders in vision research to seek treatments and cures for blindness.

Contributions will be sought from individual donors, grateful patients, corporations, and foundations.

Your Impact: A Visionary Investment
A philanthropic investment from visionary donors would not only catalyze this initiative but also position UCSF to attract additional top-tier talent and funding. Your support would provide the essential resources for these researchers to pioneer new therapies, diagnostic tools, and preventive measures.

We would be deeply grateful for any level of support for these groundbreaking efforts.

Recognition and Partnership
In recognition of your transformational support, we would ensure that your contribution is celebrated across our community and beyond. This may include prominent acknowledgment through naming opportunities, in research publications and presentations by our world-class scientists, on the All May See and UCSF Department of Ophthalmology websites, and through customized recognition opportunities that reflect the magnitude of your generosity.

A Partnership for the Future
Your partnership would dramatically accelerate our progress and bring us closer to a future where vision loss is no longer a life sentence. We would be delighted to discuss this pivotal opportunity with you in detail and explore how we can align our vision with your philanthropic aspirations. For more information, please reach out to Deborah Chesky, President, All May See Foundation at 415.476.5411 (office).

Who We Are:

The Legacy and Vision of the All May See Foundation
Founded in 1971 by two ophthalmologists, All May See Foundation is a 501 (c)(3) public charity and the philanthropic arm of the UCSF Department of Ophthalmology and Francis I. Proctor Foundation. For more than five decades, we have been at the forefront of ophthalmic advancements, thanks to the visionary support of individuals who understand the profound impact of cutting-edge research. Our mission is clear: to eliminate eye disease and restore sight, leveraging the power of private philanthropy to pioneer innovations in medical, surgical, and educational practices in ophthalmology.

UCSF Ophthalmology: A Beacon of Excellence and Innovation
Ranked among the top vision centers nationwide and lauded as #1 in the San Francisco Metro Area according to the 2024-2025 US News & World Report Best Hospitals survey, UCSF Ophthalmology has been a fertile ground for breakthroughs that have reshaped vision care globally. From the groundbreaking “Shearing Lens” in the 1970s invented by Steven Shearing, MD which immediately transformed cataract surgery and remains the fixation method of choice to this day; to the FDA-approved Light Adjustable Lens in 2017, the world’s first adjustable intraocular lens pioneered by Daniel Schwartz, MD and his collaborators from Cal Tech, which is revolutionizing modern-day cataract surgery; our faculty’s innovations have consistently set new standards in eye care world-wide.