Dr. Kenneth J. Hoffer shares his journey into ophthalmology, starting from his humble beginnings as a high school student with a dream. He overcame financial obstacles and received scholarships to pursue his medical education. Initially interested in heart surgery, he was inspired to become an ophthalmologist after observing a cataract operation. Dr. Hoffer became a pioneer in intraocular lens (IOL) implantation and power calculation, founding the American Intra-Ocular Implant Society (AIOIS), now known as ASCRS, and the Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (JCRS). He also played a role in the formation of the European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ESCRS). Dr. Hoffer reflects on his experiences as the editor of JCRS and his contributions to the field. He discusses the challenges of editing the journal and the meticulous process of typesetting and printing. Dr. Hoffer also shares his pride in the journal and its impact on lens implant surgery, calculations, and techniques. He also discusses his invention of the Hoffer Split Bifocal, the first multifocal intraocular lens, and his mentors who influenced his career.

Takeaways
Dr. Kenneth J. Hoffer’s journey into ophthalmology started with a dream and overcoming financial obstacles.
He was inspired to become an ophthalmologist after observing a cataract operation.
Dr. Hoffer became a pioneer in intraocular lens (IOL) implantation and power calculation, performing the first A-scan ultrasound IOL power calculation in the United States.
He founded the American Intra-Ocular Implant Society (AIOIS) and the Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery.
Dr. Hoffer played a role in the formation of the European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ESCRS). Editing a journal requires attention to detail and a strong command of language.
The Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (JCRS) has played a significant role in advancing lens implant calculations and surgical techniques.
Dr. Kenneth Hoffer invented the Hoffer Split Bifocal, the first multifocal intraocular lens.
Mentors, such as Drs. Karl Ossoinig, John Gilmore, Norman Jaffe, and Robert Drews, played a crucial role in Dr. Hoffer’s career.

Keywords
ophthalmology, journey, scholarships, medical education, heart surgery, cataract operation, intraocular lens, IOL, power calculation, American Intra-Ocular Implant Society, AIOIS, Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, ESCRS, journal editing, typesetting, printing, lens implant calculations, surgical techniques, multifocal intraocular lens, mentors