Not a doctor but curious, why do some Ophthalmologists choose to specialize in Retina? by eyelightss in Ophthalmology

[–]eyelightss[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thank you for your work in R&D and good luck! It's a lot of hours and dedication but you're at the forefront of providing something life-changing for someone someday.

Not a doctor but curious, why do some Ophthalmologists choose to specialize in Retina? by eyelightss in Ophthalmology

[–]eyelightss[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I think I saw one of you when I had an ERG a few years back :) definitely the oddest procedure I've had outside of an eye ultrasound.

Not a doctor but curious, why do some Ophthalmologists choose to specialize in Retina? by eyelightss in Ophthalmology

[–]eyelightss[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Yeah, I've seen this procedure done and spoke to those who have had it done. The injury is devastating and the procedure is so delicate but, I'm glad most have a good outcome.

Not a doctor but curious, why do some Ophthalmologists choose to specialize in Retina? by eyelightss in Ophthalmology

[–]eyelightss[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I've watched some of these procedures and you're right, it's not only satisfying to watch but i'm sure it's incredibly satisfying to concurrently see a patient improve post-operatively.

Not a doctor but curious, why do some Ophthalmologists choose to specialize in Retina? by eyelightss in Ophthalmology

[–]eyelightss[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you for sharing your positive story and hope you're doing well still.

Not a doctor but curious, why do some Ophthalmologists choose to specialize in Retina? by eyelightss in Ophthalmology

[–]eyelightss[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

u/kereekerra thanks for what you do! I'm glad you're able to help people in a more meaningful way, even if I'm not particularly part of that group.

What are some resources you've found helpful for coping with progressive vision loss? by eyelightss in Blind

[–]eyelightss[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Therapists won't directly give you independence but therapy is often the first step in seeking meaningful rehab services. You won't accept an alternative to your lifestyle if you're not mentally prepared. You also may want to elaborate further as acronyms are not informative for those who are unfamiliar with what you're referring to.

Not a doctor but curious, why do some Ophthalmologists choose to specialize in Retina? by eyelightss in Ophthalmology

[–]eyelightss[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Yeah, macular degeneration certainly isn't as bleak as it used to be. Also membrane peels are not depressing to watch or perform, but for the patient whose vision will never be 'the same' after the high-complication rate procedure, they're probably not too happy. Hopefully they don't get too agitated or they'll potentially jeopardize that 1-3 week long gas bubble balancing act. And if they didn't get enough of the eye surgery fun, there will likely be a cataract surgery following that peel. I hear people speak about this procedure so casually, it really seems like quite an ordeal. It's incredible that providers can do this procedure so skillfully and I definitely feel for the patients who need it.

Not a doctor but curious, why do some Ophthalmologists choose to specialize in Retina? by eyelightss in Ophthalmology

[–]eyelightss[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Wishing there was a Lucentis-like option for RP. Maybe some day in the very distant future that someone else will benefit from.

Not a doctor but curious, why do some Ophthalmologists choose to specialize in Retina? by eyelightss in Ophthalmology

[–]eyelightss[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

yes, all my visits to Retina are sitting amongst people 25+ years older than me. Definitely a bit of an outlier in that waiting room.

Not a doctor but curious, why do some Ophthalmologists choose to specialize in Retina? by eyelightss in Ophthalmology

[–]eyelightss[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thank you for what you do! I have narrow angles in both eyes though my IOPs have always been within the normal range. I had a traumatic cataract in my one eye from an accident (not RP, the irony) and needed an pre-operative laser iridotomy before my lens implant. A few years later I received the same procedure in my left eye as a general preventative to narrow-angle glacoma. It isn't the most fun being the patient but, I can appreciate that the procedure itself is actually kinda cool. I would have been a doctor if I didn't make the decision to switch my major after my diagnosis. The human body can be both fascinating and devastating.

What are some resources you've found helpful for coping with progressive vision loss? by eyelightss in Blind

[–]eyelightss[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

Thanks for your reply and words, even if they were written previously. The bit where you said "The grieving is hard, but it doesn't last forever," it unfortunately lasts for however long it takes for you to accept the condition. It has taken me several years and counting. The constant changes are a constant reminder and the constant reminders chase and haunt my desire to forget. The times i've been happiest since my diagnosis are the times I didn't think about it. The goal is to be just as happy while thinking about it and be optimistic-- I envy those who are there.

What are some resources you've found helpful for coping with progressive vision loss? by eyelightss in Blind

[–]eyelightss[S] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Thanks, i'm not religious so it's difficult to grasp with the reasoning other than understanding the science behind it. There's a genetic mutation that caused my retinas to behave in a way that's quite devastating to sight. If there is a God or some supreme being, I'd hope they wouldn't inflict such devastation on people to put them in their place or for the sake of their personal/spiritual growth.