I have pursued multiple threads in my research career, starting with my love for ophthalmology -- my home discipline, public health -- my calling), and health economics -- the lens through which I view the world. In a world that spun out of kilter on 9/11/2001, I have found myself enmeshed in projects related to national security, national IT policy, digital health, and now COVID-19. The one unifying thread has been how do I leverage my background and skills to save lives and empower others.