Mike Feilmeier, M.D., medical director of the Prevention of Global Blindness Division at the Truhlsen Eye Institute at UNMC and an ophthalmologist with Midwest Eye Care, has joined the ranks of Olympic athletes, presidents and professional entertainers in being named one of the Ten Outstanding Young Americans for 2015 by the United States Junior Chamber (Jaycees).
“To be included in this year’s group of recipients is an incredible honor. I am merely one of many individuals who have dedicated their life to the pursuit of seeing that no one lives needlessly in darkness,” Dr. Feilmeier said. “It has been the singularly most rewarding aspect of my professional career, and I look forward to dedicating the rest of my life to helping bring individuals out of the darkness and back into the light.”
Dr. Feilmeier is one of just a few ophthalmologists in the country to complete a fellowship in global blindness prevention.
Since joining UNMC in 2010, Dr. Feilmeier has led eight trips to Haiti, Ethiopia and Nepal and performed more than 1,400 sight restoring surgeries.
“Each year, the United States Junior Chamber recognizes individuals who exemplify the best attributes of the nation’s young people. Dr. Feilmeier’s tireless mission to cure blindness, his commitment to provide the gift of sight to those less fortunate, and his dedication to teaching others so they may help in the cause, is the reason we are proud to honor him,” said Laura Chesney-Gadd, director of the Ten Outstanding Young Americans program.
For more than 75 years, the United States Junior Chamber (Jaycees) has recognized 10 young men and women, aged 18 to 40, who best exemplify the highest attributes of the nation’s emerging generation.
The 2015 Ten Outstanding Young Americans will be honored at the 77th annual black-tie awards ceremony to be held March 28 in Nashville.
“These 10 individuals being honored are truly accomplished in their fields, in giving back to their communities and in promoting that service to humanity is the best work of life,” said Jennifer Ray, president of the U.S. Jaycees.
“They represent the best of the best and are individuals we should strive to emulate in our everyday actions. They remind all Americans that no problem is too difficult when handled with grace, ingenuity, courage, and determination,” Ray said.
CONGRATULATIONS!! Well deserved!
Carol and Rick Russell
Nice to see another great UNMC Alum being recognized. Dr. Feilmeier is a 2005 UNMC College of Medicine graduate! Congratulations Dr. Feilmeier
Congratulations to you on this great recognition. You are changing lives for so many people one eye at a time.
Congratulations Dr. Feilmeier!!!
He is a terrific gift! Eva Vander Linden's family certainly sppreciates his kind and committed heart!
Congratulations. Charles D. Fritch M.D.