Newport Doc Gives OC Veteran 'Gift of Sight'

When Matt Haviland saw a Groupon for LASIK eye surgery, he had no idea his consultation would inspire the Newport Beach doctor to operate for free.

But that's exactly what happened.

After sharing his story about serving with the 3rd Battalion Marines in Iraq, Haviland, 28, was chosen to receive free LASIK surgery by Dr. Gregg Feinerman through his non-profit, Operation Insight, which offers complimentary eye surgeries to public servants or people who don't have the financial means for eye care.

"It wasn't even something I thought I could afford right now," Haviland, a warehouse worker from Laguna Niguel, said. "So when they called and said the doctor would do it for free because I am a veteran, it was one of those to good to be true moments."

Haviland said he thought there was a "catch" to the free offer from Feinerman, but he soon found out it was a genuine act of kindness. Feinerman said hearing Haviland's story about when he delivered heaters to Iraqi residents and his military vehicle blew up after running over an IED, he knew he had to do something.

"He has helped our country and couldn't really afford eye care, especially since his girlfriend just had brain surgery," Feinerman said. "I just thought it would be perfect to do this for him to thank him for his service to our country."

Haviland has struggled with his vision for as long as he could remember. Prior to the LASIK surgery, he had trouble reading and seeing far. And although contacts got him away from the coke bottle glasses he wore as a child, they have made working at at a woodwork warehouse a challenge.

"I have to run and clean out my contacts at least three or four times a week at work because wood dust got into them," Haviland explained. "So to finally be able to see really well is amazing."

Feinerman founded Operation Insight in 2005 and has taken his efforts worldwide. He has performed complimentary eye operations around the globe including Vietnam, Cambodia and the Dominican Republic.

For more information about Feinerman Vision Center in Newport Beach, visit feinermanvision.com.

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