Low Vision Pioneer: Eleanor E. Faye, MD

Eleanor Eaton Faye, MD, FACS, our esteemed colleague and friend and a leader in the field of low vision, died on January 7, 2020, in New York City at the age of 96.

Medical Director at Lighthouse Guild in New York until 2014 and a powerful influence in changing perceptions of individuals who were blind or visually impaired, with the publication of her first book in 1970 named The Low Vision Patient: Clinical Experiences with Adults and Children.

Dr. Faye’s leadership during her long and distinguished career played a pivotal role in shaping the field of low vision nationally and internationally. Dr. Faye was affiliated with Lighthouse Guild (then known as Lighthouse International) for 60 years. She served as Medical Director, Ophthalmological Advisor and Director of Lighthouse Guild Low Vision Services at various points in her career. She was a founder and lead instructor with the Lighthouse Guild Continuing Education Program in Low Vision Care, lecturing at universities, hospitals and agencies. She was an attending ophthalmic surgeon at Manhattan Eye, Ear and Throat Hospital for many years. Dr. Faye has left a nonpareil legacy of commitment to helping people with low vision lead full and productive lives.