Dr. Patricia Bath

Even though Dr. Patricia Bath does not have direct ties to Illinois, her achievements as a world-renowned ophthalmologist, scientist, inventor and humanitarian has had a profound impact on all of us. Her exemplary life is truly an inspiration. 

"In 1977, she and three other colleagues founded the American Institute for the Prevention of Blindness, an organization whose mission is to protect, preserve, and restore the gift of sight. The AIPB is based on the principle that eyesight is a basic human right and that primary eye care must be made available to all people, everywhere, regardless of their economic status." https://cfmedicine.nlm.nih.gov/physicians/biography_26.html

The story of her remarkable life and work in science was published as a picture book in 2017 and was cited by both the National Science Teachers Association and the Chicago Public Library's list of best children's books of the year. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patricia_Bath

Mosca, Julia Finley (2017). The Doctor with an Eye for Eyes: The Story of Dr. Patricia Bath (Amazing Scientist). The Innovation Press. ISBN 9781943147311.

Links with more information

Changing the Face of Medicine, National Library of Medicine
https://cfmedicine.nlm.nih.gov/physicians/biography_26.htmlhttps://www.depauw.edu/news-media/latest-news/details/22969/

This comprehensive biography includes an interview in which she was asked such questions as, "What was your biggest obstacle"; "Who was your mentor"; and "How do I make a difference".

Patricia Bath - Wikipedia
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patricia_Bath

Topic headings in this Wikipedia article include "Early life and education"; "Career"; "Blindness studies and community ophthalmology"; "Inventions"; "List of U.S. patents"

Biography, Patricia Bath
https://www.biography.com/scientist/patricia-bath

This article focuses on Dr. Bath's early life and her many "firsts". Also there is a "Did you know" section which includes quick facts about her life and legacy.

The History Makers
https://www.thehistorymakers.org/biography/dr-patricia-bath

Learn more about this remarkable women including her personal favorites!