ASLMS Task Forces

One of my initiatives this year is to highlight how ASLMS members use lasers to change lives. We have expanded the New Beginnings program to include a provider directory of physicians willing to remove branding tattoos from sex trafficking survivors free of charge. I have formed a Task Force on Philanthropy to support the New Beginnings program and explore other philanthropic opportunities.

To raise awareness of the philanthropic work of our members, we are sharing a series of articles featuring members of our Task Force on Philanthropy, as well as inspiring stories from other members who have put their time and talent into helping others. I hope these stories will inspire all our members to consider how they can help change lives with lasers. Articles will be published periodically in our Light Reader newsletter, shared here and via social media.

Paul Friedman, MD
ASLMS President 

Doris Day, MD

Member, Task Force on Philanthropy

How have you used your unique set of skills to change lives with lasers for those who are underserved?  When did you first get started?
I have been helping to remove tattoos and treat scars from patients who have had radiation or been victims of abuse. I have also treated burn scars with CO₂ lasers, for over 15 years. 

What philanthropy work are you most proud of? 
Being able to make a difference and watch the impact it has on the lives of my patients. I see their confidence increase and, for many patients they finally have relief from both physical and emotional pain.

Is there a particular patient that you have worked on that was inspiring or sparked your interest in growing your philanthropy work? 
I had a patient who survived a house fire. They used the oven to heat the house because the heat had been turned off. She had severe itch and pain in the scars and her skin was disfigured. We were able to give her relief and also improve the appearance of the scars. 

What does the New Beginnings Program mean to you?
It means being able to reach more people who need us. We are here and willing to help but making the connection is not always easy. I'm happy to be able to participate and look forward to meeting those who would benefit from the work I do.

What are you currently working on?  Are there any other philanthropy projects you'd like to share and why it is important to you?
I am a mentor for a program called Same Sky (we all live under the same sky). They help women who have been incarcerated get back on their feet and they also help women from Rowanda who were victims of the genocide there. They give a hand up, not a hand out. My current mentee is in nursing school and has come a very long way. I'm so proud of her and know that her patients will be lucky to have her caring for them.

Tina S. Alster, MD

Member, Task Force on Philanthropy

How have you used your unique set of skills to change lives with lasers for those who are underserved?  When did you first get started?
I have been using lasers to treat traumatic scars since 1989 and have partnered with Burn Survivors Throughout the World as well as other organizations (e.g., Innocents At Risk) to provide complimentary laser treatments to individuals who could not afford to pay for reparative services.

Is there a particular patient that you have worked on that was inspiring or sparked your interest in growing your philanthropy work? 
I have worked with so many inspiring patients- from those who suffered burn scars in the Pentagon during 9/11 to women who have suffered domestic abuse and/or been trafficked.

What does the New Beginnings Program mean to you?
It is a wonderful way for ASLMS members to use their skills to help those in need.

What are you currently working on?  Are there any other philanthropy projects you'd like to share and why it is important to you?
I have been actively working with a woman who suffered extensive face and body burns when her (ex) husband entered her place of work and literally set her on fire.

Lesley Clark-Loeser, MD

Member, Task Force on Philanthropy

How have you used your unique set of skills to change lives with lasers for those who are underserved?  When did you first get started?
My honoring survivors initiative began approximately 7 years ago when we opened Precision Skin Institute.  This was an effort to offer compassionate care/treatment to breast cancer survivors for their surgical scars, irradiated skin, and radiation tattoos.  This effort has been both successful and hugely fulfilling and has forged some beautiful long-lasting relationships. The principal devices I have used are the VBeam, Co2re, and PicoWay.  

What philanthropy work are you most proud of? 
Both Precision Skin Institute Honors Survivors Initiative and serving on my daughter’s nonprofit organization, Shield With Care.  Her nonprofit aims to provide both sun protection and education to at-risk populations in South Florida, namely our homeless and migrant communities. 

What does the New Beginnings Program mean to you?
So much!!!!  To play any role in alleviating the burden or bad memories of a trafficking brand and assisting in a new beginning for these brave and deserving individuals is everything.  It is a beautiful way to serve as a healer in our field.