When Joseph and Barbara Betz first came to Wills Eye Hospital more than a decade ago, they were searching for answers. After Joe received a diagnosis of glaucoma during a routine eye exam, a friend encouraged the couple to seek care at Wills Eye, where they met Jonathan S. Myers, MD, Chief of the Glaucoma Service.

Following a comprehensive evaluation, Dr. Myers performed sight-saving trabeculectomy procedures on both of Joe's eyes to lower his eye pressure and preserve his vision. The treatment was successful, allowing Joe and Barbara to continue enjoying the activities they love most, including nature photography, travel, and exploring the outdoors.

Grateful for the expert care they received, the Betzes have supported Wills Eye through annual philanthropy and chose to make an even more lasting commitment by including the Wills Eye Foundation in their estate plans.

"Barbara and I have been fortunate to have had successful careers," Joe says. "We feel that it's important for us to pay back for the greater good."

Their planned gift established the Joseph C. and Barbara J. Betz Fund for Ophthalmic Education and Research, which will support fellowship training, physician education, and innovative research, with a particular focus on diseases affecting the optic nerve and macula.

"We've been so impressed with the doctors at Wills," Joe shares. "They come from around the world, and what they learn here they take back into the world. Training is an expensive proposition, and if we can help a bit with our support, we are very happy, proud, and humbled to do so."

Barbara agrees. "These physicians are so knowledgeable, so impressive, and so dedicated. Supporting them and their futures gives us a wonderful feeling."

Through their generosity and thoughtful planning, Joseph and Barbara are helping ensure that Wills Eye Hospital continues to educate future leaders in ophthalmology, advance groundbreaking research, and preserve and restore sight for generations to come.

Interested in learning more about including the Wills Eye Foundation in your estate plans or creating a lasting legacy? Visit willseye.planmygift.org or contact the Foundation office at giving@willseye.org or 215.440.3154.