Visually Challenged Children Meet Shamu On September 27, 2006, a small group of young patients from the Anne F. and Abraham Ratner Children’s Eye Center were invited to visit SeaWorld San Diego. Eleven children participated, ages ranging from 5 to 13, who are patients of Shira L. Robbins, M.D., Assistant Clinical Professor of Ophthalmology. Both children and parents received an up close experience with two killer whales. The trainers enthusiastically taught the children about whale anatomy. They learned about the dorsal fin (which helps with balance) and the blowhole (located at the top of the head for breathing). The children touched and fed the whales large ice cubes, Jello and buckets of raw fish. A few brave children received a wet goodbye as the whales waved their tails. To a child with decreased vision, the opportunity to be so close to a large whale is a once in a lifetime event. The SeaWorld whale trainers made this amazing tactile and auditory experience one that will never be forgotten by the entire group! SeaWorld Participants   Shira L. Robbins, M.D. with the Shaw triplets   Up close and personal with Shamu

Ratner Volunteers at Tijuana General Hospital Shira Robbins, M.D. led a group of physicians and staff to perform ocular examinations and surgery at the Tijuana General Hospital. The mission took place on October 14, 2006 and helped 9 disadvantaged Mexican children. Those who volunteered with Dr. Robbins included Dr. Cintia Gomi (Assistant Project Scientist), Dr. Lawrence Hou (Senior Resident), Dr. Nicole Brandt (2nd Year Resident), Erika Castro (Orthoptist), Edwin Maspat (Surgical Technician), Tim Mendez (Retired Senior Surgical Technician), and Kelly Danylyshyn-Adams (Administrative Assistant). The mission, organized by Dr. Marco Cortes and Tim Mendez, was sponsored by the Health Ministry of the Government of Baja California. The mission was a great success! The Ratner team was proud to be able to help these children across the border who would not otherwise receive ophthalmic care. Shira L. Robbins, M.D. with a group of volunteers   Ratner Children’s Eye Center team of specialists with children at the Tijuana General Hospital