Blanchard Valley Health System (BVHS), Findlay, presented its annual Distinguished Physician Award to Thomas Brumley, M.D., at the Physicians' Gala celebration held Feb. 19.

Dr. Brumley practiced as an ophthalmologist in the Findlay area for more than a decade before retiring. He is a member of Trinity Episcopal Church and has volunteered his medical skills through mission trips to Zambia, Mexico and Sierra Leone.

He is the co-founder of the International Vision Volunteers and, along with this group, helped build a hospital in Zambia. He also volunteers within the United States as part of the Remote Area Medical Volunteer Corps (RAM).

The Distinguished Physician Award is determined by a panel of physicians and a nursing administrator. The award is presented annually to a BVHS physician who achieves professional excellence and is active in community service.

The first Distinguished Physician Award was presented in 2001. Brumley is the 11th recipient of the award.