As 2014 winds down, Cataract & Refractive Surgery Today presents its annual “best of” article. It gives all of us a chance to reflect on the year and to recall its most memorable articles, advances, videos, and stories. Among the hundreds of articles published in CRST each year, some in particular make us better ophthalmologists, change how we practice, and remind us to take better care of our patients. I especially enjoy reading the “best of” articles to learn what my colleagues found important. Sometimes, their thoughts mirror my own, but I also find pearls I otherwise would have missed.
In the spirit of the season, I take a page from Charles Dickens and recognize my co-editors—the ghosts of CRST’s past, present, and future. Six years ago, I stepped in when David Chang, MD, stepped down as chief medical editor. I do not use the word replaced here, because no one replaces David. He is a force of nature, brilliant and dedicated, and he dramatically upgraded the quality of this publication. For 5 years, my co-chief medical editor was Stephen Slade, MD. In addition to being an extraordinary ophthalmologist, he is like a member of my family. I cannot speak for Stephen, but I enjoyed every minute we “tag teamed” CRST. Since he stepped down, my co-editor has been Steven Dell, MD, who may be the most interesting man in the world. He is an original thinker, an entrepreneur, and a clinician. Now, it is my turn to hand over the reins. I warmly welcome Robert Weinstock, MD, the ghost of CRST future. I have collaborated on many projects with Robert, a rising star who embraces new technology. He is insightful and pragmatic but also fair. I am confident that, together, Steven and Robert will take CRST to new heights.
What makes CRST the best publication in our field? Adam Krafczek and David Cox, vice president and president as well as cofounders of Bryn Mawr Communications, imbue each issue with their passion and vitality. They make us better ophthalmologists, and their vision touches all of the organization’s employees. I cannot mention everyone, but Gillian McDermott, CRST editor-in-chief, deserves special recognition. I sent every editorial and article I have authored to Gillian with a simple request: please take what I have written and make it better.
I also thank the authors of all of the articles I have reviewed over the past 6 years. You have contributed greatly to our profession. Finally, I thank our readers. CRST is published for you, and you determine its success. May you and your families enjoy the holiday season!
Eric D. Donnenfeld, MD
Chief Medical Editor