The Congress of the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) brings together world experts in ophthalmology to exchange the latest discoveries, technologies and clinical experiences. A delegation from the Society of Ophthalmic Surgeons of Poland participated in the proceedings of this year’s Congress in Chicago on October 18. Prof. Robert Rejdak, president of SCOP, and Dr. Ewa Fluder presented Dr. Jorge Corona, of Dallas, with an official nomination for a special award given by the Association and an invitation to participate in the Ophthalmologists’ Congress , which will be held in Lublin on February 14-16 in 2025.
Dr. Jorge Corona, who practices in Dallas, is an outstanding specialist in plastic surgery and ophthalmoplasty who has been involved in humanitarian work for years. Since the beginning of the war in Ukraine, he has been coming to Kyiv to operate charitably on wounded patients and war victims. He will be in Kyiv again in a few days.
– In each of the past editions, we have presented the Special Award for groundbreaking innovative diagnostic and therapeutic solutions,” says Professor Robert Rejdak, president of the Association of Ophthalmic Surgeons of Poland and chairman of the Chapter. – In 2025, Dr. Jorge Corona will be awarded not only for his outstanding achievements in ophthalmology and especially in the field of oculoplastics, but also for his extraordinary generosity and heroism in therapeutic charity work. His achievements in plastic surgery and oculoplastics have long been recognized in the United States and South America. However, what particularly distinguishes him in the ophthalmic and patient community is his participation in many humanitarian missions. He does work full of dedication and devotion to others.
He charitably treats and operates on patients in Guatemala and South America. He does this not infrequently in extreme circumstances at the risk of his own life. To the special credit of Polish ophthalmologists, Dr. Jorge Corona also comes to Ukraine, and most often to Kyiv, where, under wartime conditions, he performs very complicated procedures. He operates on the most severe cases of patients who have been severely injured and maimed as a result of warfare. Working in extreme conditions where there is a shortage of medical equipment, medicines, clean water and electricity requires not only exceptional skills, but also great dedication and resilience, as he risks losing his health and life. Dr. Jorge Corona’s work deserves the highest recognition and respect of the ophthalmology community. The Association Management Board’s decision to the Special Society Award was unanimous.
The board of the Association of Polish Ophthalmic Surgeons made the decision based on extensive information from various sources, but was also guided by the opinions of colleagues from Ukraine who directly cooperate with Dr. Jorge Corona. Extensive information and descriptions were obtained as well as opinions from many colleagues, including Prof. Oksana Petrenko and Dr. Olga Denysiuk:
„Dr. Jorge Corona’s decision to travel to Kyiv and offer his expertise as an oculoplastic surgeon during a time of war is a testament to his bravery, dedication, and humanitarian spirit. In the midst of a conflict that has caused widespread devastation and suffering, Dr. Corona’s actions stand out as a beacon of hope and compassion.
An outstanding oculoplastic surgeon, Dr. Corona is renowned for his skill and expertise in treating complex ocular trauma. His arrival in Kyiv marked one of the first instances of a specialized oculoplastic surgeon offering aid in the region, setting a powerful example for other medical professionals worldwide. The decision to leave the safety and comfort of his home to operate in a war zone underscores his commitment to helping those in need, regardless of the personal risks involved.
The challenges he faced were immense. Operating on soldiers and civilians who had sustained severe ocular injuries from the ongoing conflict required not only surgical precision but also a deep well of empathy and resilience. Dr. Corona’s work not only restored sight and function to his patients but also provided them with a renewed sense of hope in a time of darkness.
His bravery extends beyond the operating room. By choosing to work in Kyiv, Dr. Corona confronted the harsh realities of war, witnessing firsthand the impact of violence on innocent lives. Despite these challenges, he remained focused on his mission, using his skills to save and improve the lives of those affected by the conflict.
Dr. Jorge Corona’s actions in Kyiv serve as an inspiration to all, illustrating the profound difference that one individual can make in the lives of others. His courage, expertise, and unwavering commitment to his patients are a shining example of the power of humanitarianism in the face of adversity”.
In humanitarian missions to Ukraine Dr. Corona is also accompanied by other ophthalmologists from the United States. He also conducts training courses in the United States for Ukrainian doctors.
In February 2025, he will be a special guest at the “Update in Ophthalmology – Education and Practice” Conference in Lublin. He will lead a scientific session on oculoplasty, which will be attended by experts from Poland, Ukraine and Switzerland. Dr. Jorge Corona will be honored at this two-day conference with a Special Award from the Association of Ophthalmic Surgeons of Poland and Ukrainian Society ASOEP for his extraordinary heroism and outstanding achievements in ophthalmology.
Jolanta Czudak
