Dr. James P. Gills received his medical degree from Duke University Medical Center in 1959. He served his Ophthalmology residency at Wilmer Ophthalmological Institute of Johns Hopkins University from 1962 to 1965.  Dr. Gills founded the St. Luke's Cataract and Laser Institute in Tarpon Springs, Florida and has performed more cataract and lens implant surgeries than any other eye surgeon in the world.

Since establishing his Florida practice in 1968, he has been firmly committed to embracing new technology and perfecting the latest cataract surgery techniques. In 1974, he became the first eye surgeon in the U.S. to dedicate his practice to cataract treatment through the use of intraocular lenses.  Dr. Gills has been recognized in Florida and throughout the world for his professional accomplishments and personal commitment to helping others.  He was recently recognized by the readers of Cataract & Refractive Surgery Today as one of the top 50 cataract and refractive opinion leaders. 

Dr. Gills is not only known for his skills as a doctor, but his skill in business as President of a variety of companies, including the World Triathlon Corporation (Ironman).  He has received the 1990 Entrepreneur of the Year Award from the State of Florida, the 2000 Florida Enterprise Medal by the Florida Merchant’s Association, the 2000 Free Enterpriser of the Year Award from the Florida Council on Economic Education, The Tampa Bay Ethics Award, and an appointment to the Florida Sports Foundation Board of Directors.  He is an avid athlete and has competed in 46 marathons, 30 triathlons, 5 Ironman races, 6 Double Ironmans, and 4 two hundred mile races. 

In addition, Dr. Gills has published over 190 medical articles and authored or co-authored 14 books on ophthalmology.  He has also written 18 books on Christian living, with over 6 million in print.  Dr. Gill’s philanthropic work in over 70 ministries and organizations led to him recently being awarded the Duke University 2005 Humanitarian Award and the 2002 William Carey Award for Extraordinary Leadership and Service in World Missions, presented by Trinity College.