Page 7 - Lion's Gift of Sight Fall Newsletter

The Eye Bank Association of America, realizing that there are no better ambassadors for eye banking than eye bankers themselves, asked that employees of member eye banks share why they do what they do! These stories help spread the word about eye and cornea donation and the importance of registering as a donor.
Many Lions Gift of Sight employees submitted stories to the EBAA, and the sentiments expressed were gratifying. Below are some thoughts from Chris, and to the right are quotes from some of our other awesome eye bankers.
Employee Spotlight:
Chris, Eye Bank Scientist
“During my studies in the Mortuary Science
Program at the University of Minnesota, I was
lucky enough to learn from the greatest teachers
of all - whole body donors. I am extremely
grateful to those who selflessly donate after
death. So much so that I decided to focus on
donation instead of funeral services. Following
graduation, I found a job at Lions Gift of Sight (then Minnesota Lions Eye Bank). That job turned into a career as I’m now in my 11th year! My tenure at LGS is a testament to the satisfaction I derive from playing a daily vital role in the restoration of sight and the joys of working for a non-profit with a strong, important mission. Happy Eye Donation Month! Recycle Yourself!”
Chris LaGassie first joined the eye bank as a donor coordinator, part of the team that receives donation referral calls, screens potential donors, speaks with donor family members, and coordinates eye donation. He swiftly worked his way up to team lead, a position he held for several years. Then, in 2019, Chris assumed a new role at the eye bank: eye bank scientist. Eye bank scientists take over where donor coordinators leave off. They prepare eye tissue for the many types of corneal transplants that now exist and need good eyes, steady hands, and incredible dexterity.
Chris grew up in Green Bay, Wisconsin, and bleeds green and gold. He is a concert junkie, so going to a live show will be the first thing he does when the pandemic is over.
“ As a donor coordinator I get to speak with families and give them the oppor- tunity to turn grief into something more positive. Often families will tell me how kind and generous their loved ones were, and they take comfort in know- ing that even after death they continue to give through the gift of sight.”
“ > Kari, Donor Coordinator
My mother, and others affected by blindness, are why I am proud to work for Lions Gift of Sight.”
“ > Amber, Quality Systems Coordinator
I’m happy to work in an organization that is committed to quality, innovation, responsibility, and service to our recip- ients and donor families. In addition, I feel lucky to work with a team that shows these qualities on an individual level.”
> Kody, Donor Eligibility Manager
I came to the eye bank 16 years ago and fell in love with the full-circle effect donation offers grieving families and recipients in need. As we navigate the road ahead of us, one thing I know for sure amidst so much uncertainty is that I am proud to be part of such a wonder- ful team doing such wonderful work.”
> Lori, Eye Bank Scientist
Chris LaGassie, CTBS
“
Chris (center), with co-workers Lauren and Kody, representing Lions Gift of Sight at the Minnesota State Fair (sadly canceled in 2020).
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