November 30, 2012

“Now I feel alive” - Stories from our Docs

By cschenk

A story shared by Kyle Burgers, with Todd Racho & Nishi Mehdiratta

"A sweet 53 year old woman came to IMS with an Rx of -19.00 OU. Her current glasses were broken so she had nothing. Todd searched high and low for her Rx and came up with three pairs of -19's. Nishi put them on her and her face completely lit up & she immediately started pointing at everything around her, almost giddy. We gave her two pairs in case her new pair broke and she was ecstatic. Minutes later we were told what she said about the experience: "When I came in here, I felt dead, but now I feel alive." *Tears and goosebumps* "

Written by Andrea Lasby:

Our doctor team has been keeping very busy over the last few days! Since beginning clinic, we have made over 300 referrals, ranging from cataracts to pterygia, glaucoma and retinal disease. Yesterday, Dr. Karen encountered a patient with undiagnosed glaucoma and intraocular pressure of 45mmHg! She quickly started him on pressure-lowering drops and sent him to the hospital immediately. Other interesting cases included a patient with a suspected melanoma on the surface of the eye that Dr. Katie referred to a local opthalmologist, as well as a patient who was diagnosed with a central vein occlusion by Dr. Angela. All in all, the doctors have had a wonderful time interacting with each and every patient, and have been blown away by the hospitality of our gracious hosts and the wonderful clinic facilities. We would especially like to thank the priceless local volunteers who help us translate, assist in holding targets and measuring visual acuities. For many of the volunteers, today was their last day, and their departure was met with lots of hugs and pictures. It may have only been three days, but it's easy to form relationships with such amazing people! Now, nearing  the half-way point of our clinic days, the team has become more efficient and cohesive as our doctors continue to support and encourage each other, even with the sore backs & tired feet! We are excited and ready for another great day tomorrow!

-19 patient wearing the winning pair, posing with Todd

2 Comments

  1. Thomas says:

    Advice from the missing chapter of the “Clinic Handbook’.
    Don’t eat lunch with the Drs. if you have a weak stomach!!!
    They do so love to talk about the “Cool” pathologies they’ve seen that morning.
    P.S. To My often roommate Bob, remember to be careful what you compliment in Thialand, you could end up with a truck load of pillows on the last night in country…..
    Thomas

    Posted on Sun Dec 2, 2012 3:27 pm EST

  2. Rick Lasby says:

    I am glad that the clinic is going so well. It is wonderful to hear of those with smiles on their faces due to improved vision, while others may be saved from worse conditions.

    I hope the missing chapter of the “Clinic Handbook” didn’t also warn about potential food issues.  Glad to hear improving health is in store for those who have been ill.  Keep up the good work.

    Posted on Mon Dec 3, 2012 8:10 pm EST

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