Man of Vision: The Story of Dr. Robert Morrison chronicles the extraordinary life of Doctor Robert Morrison, whose career as inventor, researcher, teacher, author, and doctor spans over half a century and continues even today. The book is filled with fascinating stories, including how Dr. Morrison was knighted by royalty for his contributions to eye care around the world. The reader learns how Robert once received a Rolls-Royce as a thank-you gift from a queen and how he reportedly won the Monte Carlo Casino in a tennis match with his friend, Prince Albert. On the more serious side, there are stories such as the time he spent a night in a Russian jail during his world tour promoting better vision.
Excerpts from the Book:
Beautiful model Cheryl Tieg once interviewed Robert on the Today Show. When the interview was over, Tieg invited Robert to lunch. Dr. Morrison declined with regrets, having to rush to speak at the Mount Holly Women’s Club lunch near Carlisle, Pennsylvania. A few hours later, Robert was speaking to the Women’s Club, sharing the story, amidst much laughter and delight. It was the day the Women’s Club had taken precedence over Cheryl Tieg.
Cheryl Tieg and Robert Morrison on the set of Good Morning America
Arlene Francis was a famous star of the stage and screen, as well as television and radio. She had a nationally syndicated radio program on WOR in New York City for many years, where she interviewed many of the great stars of the time. Once she said to Carol Channing, “I know you wear contact lenses and so do I. I was wondering if you were hard to fit since you have those wonderful, big eyes?” Ms. Channing replied, “I have the best eye doctor in the whole world and the challenge was his, and he has made me very happy. He’s the very best.” “No,” said Arlene Francis, “my eye doctor is the very best.” “But my eye doctor is Dr. Robert Morrison," Ms. Channing insisted, "and he is the best in the world.” Arlene Francis laughed, and she admitted that Carol Channing was right. You see, Ms. Francis’s eye doctor was also Dr. Robert Morrison.
Robert and his wife Ruthie with Richard Thornburgh