Honoring an Extraordinary Physician
The late Dr. Matthew Weed was a pediatric ophthalmologist and ocular geneticist whose career, including service at the John A. Moran Eye Center, reflected excellence in patient care, a deep commitment to education, and a forward-looking interest in advancing the diagnosis and treatment of childhood vision disorders.
"Matt was an extraordinary physician and human being who cared deeply about his patients and brought genuine compassion to everything he did. His loss leaves a profound void in our community. We are committed to honoring his legacy by carrying forward his spirit of humanism, his dedication to excellent patient care, and his positive impact on all those whose lives he touched."
Legacy Fund Award Programs
Through a generous gift, the Moran Eye Center has established three programs to honor Dr. Weed’s legacy through education, research, and resident leadership.
Purpose: To provide annual financial support to a resident or fellow who has matched into a pediatric ophthalmology fellowship or pediatric subspecialty-focused training program and demonstrates commitment to patient care, education, and advanced pediatric eye health.
Award Amount: $10,000 annually (one award per year), with potential for additional awards dependent on funding.
Eligibility: Residents or fellows who have successfully matched into an ACGME-accredited pediatric ophthalmology fellowship or pediatric subspecialty-focused training program.
Selection Criteria: Applicants will be evaluated based on:
- Commitment to compassionate, family-centered pediatric patient care.
- Dedication to education and teaching, including mentorship or educational leadership.
- Priority consideration for applicants pursuing pediatric subspecialty focus, including ophthalmic genetics, pediatric neuro-ophthalmology, pediatric retina, pediatric glaucoma, or related areas.
Use of Funds: Educational expenses, scholarly activity, professional travel, or other training-related costs consistent with the award’s purpose.
Purpose: To support research aimed at improving diagnosis, early detection, and outcomes for childhood vision disorders, with emphasis on pediatric retinal diseases or other vision-threatening conditions.
Scope: Clinical, translational, or outcomes-based research directly learning to improve eye health for pediatric patients.
Eligibility: Faculty, fellows, or trainees engaged in pediatric ophthalmology research; multidisciplinary collaboration encouraged.
Award Structure: The number and size of awards are determined based on available funds. Applications and award decisions will be at the discretion of the Moran Chair.
Purpose: To recognize a chief resident who exemplifies the personal and professional qualities that defined Dr. Weed as a physician, educator, and colleague: compassion, clinical excellence, and commitment to mentorship and education.
Dr. Weed joined Moran Eye Center in July 2025 and made a significant impact on the residents. He often took time to give encouraging and constructive feedback to residents. The residents greatly enjoyed learning from him about inherited retinal diseases and pediatric ophthalmology. They also appreciated his exceptional bedside manner. While delivering heartbreaking news about vision-limiting diagnoses to his patients and their families, he explained complex topics clearly and with deep empathy. He made sure patients and families left empowered by information and with hope about their future. His patients knew they had a doctor who would support them in any way he could and maximize their vision. Dr. Weed's passion for pediatric ophthalmology and mentorship will continue to inspire future generations of ophthalmologists.
Selection Process: The award will be nominated and selected by residents.
Award Components: Formal recognition at resident graduation with a commemorative plaque or engraved award.