Billionaire father Bill Ackman bets on daring treatment after daughter loses her sight

Billionaire investor Bill Ackman has backed an experimental treatment aimed at restoring the sight of his 26-year-old daughter, Lucy, after she suffered a brain hemorrhage in February that left her unable to move, speak or see.

According to The Washington Post, doctors at Mount Sinai Hospital transferred mitochondria, the energy-producing parts of cells, from Lucy’s leg muscle to her eyes in a first-of-its-kind procedure. The treatment initially enabled her to perceive light, but the benefit appeared to fade after about a month.

Ackman has pledged more than $400 million toward a new institute focused on brain health, rehabilitation and longevity, named the Ackman Oxman Institute after him and his wife, Neri Oxman.

Scientists say the therapy remains experimental, with further research needed to determine its safety and effectiveness.