| Welcome to GlaucoMates! Here you
can learn more about others who attend the chat as well as
visitors to our website. You can click on a type of glaucoma
to find other glaucomates with that particular type of glaucoma
or you can click on a name to find out more about someone
you may have met in the chat room or on Bionic Eye message
board. We are always building our GlaucoMate section to better
serve our Chat Community. If you would like to be listed or
make a change to your profile, click
here to find out details. |
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Angle-closure and Plateau Iris Syndrome
ICE syndrome
Inflammatory glaucoma
Traumatic glaucoma
Pigmentary glaucoma
Advanced glaucoma
Normal-tension glaucoma
Primary open-angle glaucoma
Secondary glaucoma
Glaucoma suspect (Ocular
hypertension, suspicious nerves or fields)
Pediatric glaucoma (Congenital,
Infantile, Juvenile, Sturge-Weber, Aniridia, Axenfeld-Rieger,
Peter's Anomaly)
Amanda
(AU)
Born: January 1963
Residence: Esperance, Australia
Glaucoma Type: Closed angle
Age diagnosed: 46
Glaucoma History: Developed glaucoma after
taking aspartame lozenges?
Personal: Mother of 3 children aged 13,
11 and 9. Disbelief but now a determination to find a cure,
there must be something.
Hobbies: gardening, planting trees, beaching
and of course the internet.
Last update: July 8, 2008 |
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Bobbie
Born: August 1954
Residence: Irving, Texas
Glaucoma Type: Narrow angle
Age diagnosed: 48
Glaucoma History: Went to my general practitioner in May 2003 after headaches around my left eye that gave me cloudy vision & rainbow halos. I thought it was migraines or sinus. Was shocked to find out it was glaucoma. Pressure in right eye was 45 & left was 23. Had laser procedure in right eye the next day. My right eye never gave me any symptoms. Had an acute angle closer attack in the left eye before the laser hole had been made big enough & pressure was 55. Have had 3 laser procedures in left eye & 2 in right. Take Alphagan-P three times a day. Am trying to understand & come to terms with all of this.
Personal: I have worked at the local phone company 25 years. Married 28 years.
Last update: July 12, 2003 |
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Cheyenne
Born: August 1956
Residence: Laurel, Maryland
Glaucoma Type: Angle-closure glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 45
Glaucoma History: I was diagnosed with glaucoma March 2002. There is no family history of this.
Career: Writer
Personal: I am a 45 yr. old, African American woman. I have 2 children and 4 grandchildren. I am a writer. I love outdoors in any weather. Music and writing (of course) are my passions. I possess a wonderful sense of humor... I am looking forward to communicating with any one that can lend me some support and encouragement. I hope to be a bright spot in someones day also.
Hobbies: My hobbies are writing, recording and listening to "our generation" music and sharing it with my grandchildren.(that are amazed at how the record spins). I also enjoy making people happy, that truly makes my day to know that someone got a hardy laugh by something that I have said.
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Dan-Utah
Residence: Springville,
UT
Birth: October 1949
Glaucoma Type: Narrow
angle glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 55
Glaucoma History: My
left eye has a few blind spots - one touching the center
field.
Hobbies: Fying, golf, skiing
Personal: Aircraft
designer
Last Update: April 1, 2009 |
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davidcows
Residence: Spain
Birthday: September
1992
Glaucoma Type: primary closed angle plateau
iris
Age diagnosed: 17
Glaucoma History: Went
for iridotomy and iridoplasty, also lens removal both eyes,
in order to low IOP. Scheduled for trab in days, IOP remains
20/22 with multiple drops.
Personal bio: 18 year old guy, sports fan...
Hobbies:
tennis, computer, music, reading
Last Update: February 24, 2011 |
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dacqua
Residence: Boston
Glaucoma Type: Closed Angular
Glaucoma
Birthday: January 1959
Age diagnosed: 52
Glaucoma History:
Went to bed one night everything was fine. Laid in bed for
about 10 minutes and had this pain in my left eye. Did not
sleep all night the pain was so severe. I went to see my
Doctor in the morning my left eye was closed and my cheek
felt numb. Dr. tried to examine my eyes with the light and
I went into overdrive! She sent me to the ER for migraine
medicine. They gave me morphine, only made it worse as that
is all I felt was the eye pain. Did a cat scan of my brain
did not find anything. ER Dr. was not equipped with the
best pressure tester. She continued to poke at my eye and
I was screaming of pain. She was getting a reading in the
80's. By this point they finally sent me over to the eye
clinic and had emergency laser on my left eye. My pressure
was 58. I will be going next week to do the right eye as
I also have it there. I then will go to Tufts medical to
have an ultrasound of why I am getting this at 52. My dad
also has this and had laser 2 years ago and his mother also
had it. Pretty scary if you ask me.
Personal bio: Student Mediation
and Paralegal
Hobbies:
Cooking, gardening, bike riding, and photography.
Last Update: November 18, 2011 |
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DebHoop
Born: October 1961
Residence: Rhode Island
Glaucoma Type: Acute angle-closure glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 35
Glaucoma History: Acute onset after surgery in abdomen. Was misdiagnosed for a week as a migraine. Pressures went up to 60. Had two laser procedures and had my left eye remove due to a blind painful eye. Presently ubdergoing nerve destruction procedure in left eye due to nerve damage caused by the glaucoma. Very scared and alone. I have not met anyone who had lost their eye to glaucoma. I am very devasted by this loss.
Career: Diasbled medical secretary
Personal: Born premature and have ROP and I am legally blind. I was a medical secretary at a low vision agency for three years. I have been married for 19 years and have two children, Laura 17 and Steve 16. (Feb 2003)
Hobbies: Reading, walking and music. I am interested in the broadcasting industry but don't know how to get started.
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Dealsgap
Residence: Ft Worth, TX
Birth: April 1960
Glaucoma Type: Secondary narrow angle glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 51
Glaucoma History:
Steroid induced glaucoma (Lasiks).
Last Update: September 1, 2010 |
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Elizabeth
Born: 1970
Residence: Massachusetts
Glaucoma Type: Pigmentary
Age diagnosed: 42
Glaucoma History: I was diagnosed 5 months ago, very sad. I am not African American, overweight, male, or any other "type" that would get glacoma. I had an iridotomy in both eyes ... will find out how I am in 5 months, if the pressure is better. By the way, eye doctors always took my pressure, and it was always normal. The only way they found out I had glacoma was because I had some eye problems(vitreous detachment).
Career: Airline Representative
Personal: I am worried and scared about my glacoma, but, the doctor says that everything looks good...I hope so.
Hobbies: Traveling, reading, gardening.
Last update: October 16, 2005 |
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Ellmay
Born: 1970
Residence: Boston, MA
Glaucoma Type: Narrow-angle
Age diagnosed: 45
Glaucoma History: My Dad had glaucoma and was legally blind. I was diagnosed 1 year ago and had laser surgery. Since then I had a major flare up where the pressure was 61 & 31. They managed to get that down and now I am doing the drops 3 times a day. I have constantly got irritated eyes and am hoping that I can get a handle on things by talking to other people with the disease.
Career: Real Estate
Personal: Married with 2 kids 19 & 16. I live in the Boston area. I work in real estate.
Last update: October 1, 2003 |
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heyma
Born: October 1949
Residence: Emmett, Idaho
Glaucoma Type: Acute angle-closure
Age diagnosed: 52
Glaucoma History: I woke up one morning in terrible pain. I had had my pressures checked three weeks before at my checkup, and everything was normal. I thought the pain/discomfort I was experiencing was the adjustment period for my new prescription.
The pressure in my right eye was up to 76. Drops did not work to lower the pressure so laser surgery was done. The next morning the pressure was back up over 70, so surgery was done. Four days later laser surgery was done on my left eye, the pressure was 34.
My grandmother had glaucoma, but I do not know anyone else in my family who did. The eye doctor was encouraging my sister to have her eyes check immediately because of the high likelihood it could happen to her too.
I seem to be recovering well. I have had a bout of conjunctivitis in the left eye, kept putting in those great drops, not realizing that I was having an allergic reaction to them which continued to get worse. The new drops seem to have the left eye under control. I was told to expect cataract surgery "sooner, rather than later". But that my vision would probably be significantly better then.
I've only been at this since 6/9/02 and I'm trying to learn as much as I can.
I am not as frightened as I was earlier, and I am so grateful for the relatively good vision I have now.
Career: Pharmacy Technician
Personal: I am a 52 year old woman, two grown kids, no grandchildren. I was widowed 4 years ago (1998), and I resent that no one is here to help me as I had cared for my husband during his journey with cancer. My children live out of state, and it's scary to wake up and need to get to the doctor immediately, but not to be able to drive the 30 miles. I have some life-style changes to make, don't I?
Hobbies: I am a reader. How frustrating to sit in this house full of books, and only be able to read a few pages at a time. Gardening has been very good for me. I don't need to focus so well, and if I can't see the weeds, they don't bother me! |
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Jan
Born: March 1948
Residence: New Zealand
Glaucoma Type: Acute angle closure
Age diagnosed: 49
Glaucoma History: Have had 2 moleno drains in left eye inserted..several
lazer surgeries no family history or medical problems. Cataract now over
L eye no sight. Eye very painful. Have never communicated with anyone
with glaucoma
Personal: 58 yrs married, 2 children, 1 grand child, love
dogs animals people cooking shared foos good times and company.
Hobbies: Obviously need more on line practice.
Last Update: July 2, 2007
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Jeanie
Residence: Hatfield, PA
Glaucoma Type: Pigmentary
Age diagnosed: 30
Glaucoma History: First diagnosed over 30 years
ago. Have run the gauntlet with laser procedures, iridotomy,
trabeculoplasty. With medication IOP OD and OS stable at
16-18mm/Hg. Most recently OD has been creeping up into the
low 20's. Tried different meds to no avail. Tried SLT twice
in OD with little change, pressure still steadily increasing.
Last month pressure was 40mm/Hg in OD, 16mm/Hg OS. Had an
emergency trabeculectomy at Wills Eye, perfect surgery,
no complications, bleb is properly formed. Wills Eye is
the most wonderful hospital. The care is and expertise is
incomparable. How could I ever have been so lucky to stumble
into the Glaucoma Clinic at Wills Eye? Quite candidly, one
event in my life which I have have never regretted.
Personal: Electrical engineer with extensive
academic training in counseling and experimental psychology,
have recently undergone GRS and facial reconstruction surgery.
Hobbies: Formula 1, motorcycles, art, music,
cooking, reading, electronics, spending time with my girl
friends.
Last Update: September 29, 2009 |
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John
Born: April 1960
Residence: Santa Maria, CA
Glaucoma Type: Plateau iris syndrome
Age diagnosed: 36
Glaucoma History: Diagnosed five years ago, took them a year to determine what type of glaucoma I had. I am currently on three types of drops and have had three laser procedures as of October 2001.
Career: Operations Manager
Personal: 41 year old male with 2 boys ages 18 and 15, married for 21 years. (10/2001)
Hobbies: Harley Davidson motorcycles
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Joy
Born: December 1950
Residence: Deland, Florida
Glaucoma Type: Angle-closure glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 52
Glaucoma History: I first noticed a halo in my right eye when driving at night. I lost most of the vision in the eye which put me in the emergency room at 1 am. I had a severe headache and nausea. It took 10 hours of brain scans, etc. before they realized my IOP pressure was 72. Had laser in right eye and one week later in left eye. I did loose some vision in that eye. Pressure now is 18 in both eyes. I use the Proview daily for peace of mind between doctor visits.
Career: Student
Personal: Moved to Florida from Indiana in 1972. Was married 10 years the first time, 18 the second. I have been divorced for 3 years. No kids. I am taking care of my mother to keep her out of the nursing home as long as possible. I am going to school trying to bet my life back together. I thank God everyday that I can still see.
Hobbies: I love dancing, (ballroom, country, latin,)I have done competition(teach some too), biking, hiking, animals, computers.
Last update: July 25, 2003 |
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Julie
(Jewel)
Born: September 1939
Residence: NJ
Glaucoma
Type: Narrow angle
Age diagnosed: 54
Glaucoma
History: Surgery for narrow angle at Wills, pressure of 70.
Nerve damage, dilated pupil, narrow field of vision, good vision, very
sensitive eye.
Career: Retired teacher |
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KEN (Karen
N.)
Born: February 1959
Residence: White Rock, Canada
Glaucoma
Type: Narrow angle glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 41
Glaucoma
History: Had no knowledge of having NAG prior to age 41.
Had five eye attacks of closed angle glaucoma back in September 2000 and
was given laser eye surgery to correct the angle. Have had eye pains ever
since and eye sight has changed alot. Hard time driving at night &
lights bother my eyes and I cannot see far away anymore. My ophthalmologist
who did the surgery said I was her youngest patient ever. Her next oldest
patient is 65 years old.
Career: Computer Support Senior Tech
Personal: I am an active 41 year old
single mom of a 17 year old and this disease has slowed me down alot. A
Eurocapital is still working on my case currently as to why I had
so much eye pain but cannot associate it with anything so far.
Hobbies: Reading, watching my son
skateboard in contests,surfing the net |
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Lil Engine
Born: July 1943
Residence: Guilford, CT
Glaucoma Type: Angle-closure
Age diagnosed: 59
Glaucoma History: Yearly eye exams did not pick up my glaucoma although I reported symtoms of blurred vison, rings around lights and headaches. in March,2003, I could not read the "E" on the chart. Sent to a glaucoma specialist at the Yale Eye Center in New Haven, CT. The diagnosis is angle closure glaucoma. Laser surgery performed (left eye) the first day of my visit for elevated presure in the 30's. Told I would need the same in the right eye soon. Laser in the left failed and within 48 hours had an acute attack followed by a trabeculectomy. That procedure has failed due to the formation of scar tissue. Several laser procedures to reduce pressue, not working. Many drops as well. Severe reaction to timolol. Right eye laser may,2003 due to rising pressure in the good eye. Seems to have reduced the pressure just fine. Have narrow angle in that eye now. Soon, will be needing a second trabeculectomy in left eye and cataract surgery with an implant. My big worry is headaches and
nausea, especially during the night. I am afraid to sleep for fear of an acute attack again. Permanent vison loss in left eye due to years of untreated and elevated pressure not picked up during routine visits. Panic attacks during office visits. Very humiliated by my behaviors. Want to overcome!
Career: Social worker
Personal: Live with my retired husband, an attorney. Still actively work for the state of connecticut as a social worker. Love people and helping. Have three children and three grandchildren. They are my life and my joy. Like to write, collect antique dolls and garden. Like driving,too, but am not good at it anymore. Have had three accidnets in the last few months, all on the right side! Car looks great on the left. Am good at encouraging others and would like to share that gift.
Last update: June 9, 2003 |
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Linda
Residence: Mountain
Top, Pa
Birth: June 1958
Glaucoma Type: Glaucoma
Suspect
Age diagnosed: Around 45
Glaucoma History: I
am a glaucom suspect. I have cateracts also. My grandfather
on my dad's side had cateracts and glaucoma. My dad has
cateracts and glaucoma. My grandmother on my mothers side
had macular Degeneration, glaucoma and cateracts. My dad
and I are diabetic, non-insulin, but we do take pills for
it.
Hobbies: I enjoy reading, spending time
with family, watching romantic comedies, taking walks, and
shopping!!
Last Update: April 4, 2009 |
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Lulu
Residence: Abington
Birth: April 1974
Glaucoma Type: Narrow-angle
Age diagnosed: 34
Glaucoma History: When
I was expecting my second child, the OB suggested I see
an ophthalmologist due to my chronic hypertension. While
the blood pressure hadn't caused any problems with my eyes,
the doctor discovered glaucoma suspect. He wanted a second
opinion from a specialist at Wills Eye. She exclaimed, "buy
that guy a bottle of wine" when she looked at my eyes.
That was followed by, "give him more than a bottle
of wine!" I already have scarring in my left eye and
am awaiting a phone call to schedule laser iridotomy in
both eyes.
Hobbies: Movies, movies, movies! I also
enjoy knitting, meditation and Starbucks.
Personal: I'm a stay-at-home-mom
of two beautiful and very young children. Before having
kids, I worked for the Alzheimer's Association running the
helpline and a program called Safe Return. And before that,
I was a professional artist.
Last Update: November 13, 2008 |
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JoCarmen
Born: August 1927
Residence: Pittsburgh, PA
Glaucoma Type: Closed angle
Age diagnosed: 55
Glaucoma History: Diagnosed high-normal (18-20)AT 50 years old. Treatment: Follow-ups and field vision tests about every six months. Laser surgery at 70. At 74 years old treatments started with Timolol Maleate (Gel Forming): single drop in each eye twice a day. After six months Alphagan was added and treatment changed to Timolol once in each eye in AM and Alphagan opnce in each eye twice a day. Aftr 8 months, became allergic to Alphagan and was switched to Trusopt: once in each eye, twice a day in addition to the Timolol. Last visit toDoctor reading was at 18 with medications.
Career: Retired
Hobbies: Gardening, reading, surfing the internet - I am an information freak!
Last update: March 4, 2004 |
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Mamma
Born: June
1961
Residence: Ontario
Glaucoma
Type: Acute-angle
Age diagnosed: 36
Glaucoma
History: My mother had an attack of acute angle glaucoma in
both eyes in her mid thirties. I was misdiagnosed at my hospital and as a
result have suffered severe vision damage. I received laser treatment in
both eyes four days after diagnosis. There have been no problems with the
right eye, however I am on three different drops for my left and now there
is talk of surgery to relieve the pressure.
Career: Domestic Engineer
Personal: I am
a fourty year old legally blind mother of a teenage daughter. I have
retinitus pigmentosa (RP) as well as glaucoma and am very used to being
poked and proded by the medical profession. My family is one of the
largest carriers of RP and we have been seen by too many doctors to count
since we were small children. Hopefully they're study of us will benefit
others with similar problems.
Hobbies: My hobbies include fishing,
swimming, cooking,boating, recording movies and best of all, reading.
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Marie-Claude
Born: August 1959
Residence: Montreal
Glaucoma Type: Plateau Iris
Glaucoma History: Went for a routine chek-up a year ago at optometrist who told me I had narrow-angle. Never had an attack - thank god! - but started at this point to have those daily migraines that only goes away after a cocktail of tylenol extra-strenght and sleep. I was diagnose with Plateau iris after ubm last september and had iridotomy on both eyes and taking pilo twice a day. I still have difficulties accepting it, even if I know I was really lucky to be diagnosed before any attack and to be treated in order to prevent it. Never the less, I am afraid of the side effects of the medication and other treatments and lookin to find, if any, answers and support
Career: Financial services
Hobbies: Ski patroller (as volunteer) on week-ends,
scuba diving and bicycling in the summer.
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Marilyn
Born: July 1954
Residence: Ontario Canada
Glaucoma Type: Plateau-iris
Age diagnosed: 47
Glaucoma History: Just diagnosed last week with Plateau Iris and know very little about it. I was told 2 years ago that my eye pressure was up and I should come back once a year to have it checked. Now I have been put on Pilosophize 3 times a day. Was told that laser surgery does not generally work on this type of Glaucoma. I will see the specialist again next week but was wondering if anyone can tell what the general prognosis is.
Career: Financial Services
Personal: Mother of two grown children and two grandchildren. Enjoy travelling.
Hobbies: Working out, swimming, cycling. |
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NoFun
(Norm)
Born: January 1953
Residence: Utah
Glaucoma
Type: Narrow-angle (due to tiny eyes)
Age
diagnosed: 46
Glaucoma History: In December 1999 my
vision went cloudy and for the most part left me blind. Misdiagnosed as a
eye infection, it was 2 days before a eye doctor diagnosed acute angle
closure glaucoma. IOP of 67 in both eyes. I have been on many drops and
had several lasers and finally the lenses in my eyes removed to relieve
the pressure. It is way too long of a story to tell here.
Career: Looking busy
Personal: Married to the perfect wife.
We have 2 adult boys, both married and living out of state.
Hobbies: Computers, photography,
music, playing guitar, and traveling. |
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ps 114 (Juan
T.)
Born: July 1966
Residence: Prescott Michigan
Glaucoma
Type: Acute glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 19
Glaucoma
History: I was diagnosed at the age of 19 with acute
glaucoma beyond repair, suffering from headaches 3-4 times per week along
with nauseating pain. I've been on bioptic eye drops for the last 10 years
that never brought my pressure under control, now the pressure is at 72 in
the right eye and I am scheduled for nucleation surgery in March 2001. At
this time I will be getting a new eye. The only thing I look forward to is
no pain, no headaches and no nauseousness. So they say any how, I am a
born again Christian who believes in heeling powers of the holy ghost and
I am committed to prayer for all glaucoma patients.
Career: Restaurant Management
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Randy72
Residence: St Louis, Mo
Birth: November 1972
Glaucoma Type: Chronic narrow angle
Age diagnosed: 36
Glaucoma History: Went
to optometrist for rouine eye exam had pressures in the
mid 30's, was referred to opthalmologist who performed irodotomy
and started on drops.
Personal: Married
father of two, son 14 and daughter 11. Employed as a parole
officer. Had cataract surgery along with vitrectomy and
goniosynechialysis in late June on my right eye expecting
surgery in left eye in August. Very frightened.
Hobbies: tennis, golf, camping, canoeing,
anything outdoors with my family.
Last Update: August 30, 2009 |
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Rhonda
Residence: Australia
Birth: April 1960
Glaucoma Type: Angle closure
Age diagnosed: 42
Glaucoma History: Diagnosed
with Closed Angle Glaucoma in 2002.I experienced slight blurred vision
several times before I had a bad headache and blurred vision associated
with a 'gritty' feeling in my eye. I went to my local doctor the next
morning as I had severe pain during the night; she diagnoised me as having
a migraine. That evening, the pain was so severe I thought I had a brain
tumour. Went back to Doctors first thing in the morning whereby they took
one look at me at put me in an ambulance and off to hospital. Closed Angle
Glaucoma was diagnosed and my specialised did a laser into my left eye
to reduce the pressure. Between 2002 and September 2008 I have been on
eye drops and tablets; most recently 6 x pilocarpine 4%; xalatan and cosopt,
along with 2 x Diamox a day to try and keep the pressure down. Unfortunatley
these have failed and I had an operation four days ago to open the angle
behind my eye. This was pretty scary and I am still in a lot of pain.
Stitches were removed yesterday and it is now the weekend. My doctor told
me to massage the bleb every hour to assist the flow of fluid. I am worried
that I am not doing this correctly, and am contemplating ringing him for
some reassurance. At present vision is very poor although I have been
told this will improve over the next three to four months. I am also hopeful
that I will be on as low as 2 drops a day to control my pressure. I am
married with three children; the youngest is 16; the eldest are sons aged
20 and 23 and they both live and work away from home.
Personal: Hobbies Little Athletics (I am our State President), reading, water skiing,football
(spectator at my sons' games
Last Update: October 18, 2008
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Saja
Born: July 1953
Residence: New Jersey
Glaucoma Type: Closed-angle glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 41
Glaucoma History: Diagnosed in 1995, had laser surgery, then a trab in 1996. Have not responded to the various drops over the years - have had 6 laser surgeries since 95, along with 4 "needling" procedures. Had second trab in Aug. 2002, and will be scheduling shunt surgery within next few weeks. Pressures have been as high as the 60s. I have lost about 80% of vision in my left eye.
Career: Financial Sales Manager
Personal: I live with my "significant other" and our dog -Sam. We have no children, but are "aunt and uncle" to every child we know!!
We both have careers that take up much of our time, but we look forward to our time together. Both my parents are deceased, and I am not even sure if anyone in my family had glaucoma.
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sarnge
Born: January 1965
Residence: Hastings, England
Glaucoma Type: plateau iris/angle closure
Age diagnosed: 38
Glaucoma History: My mum had emergency trabeculectomies
when she was 27, she had had pain for years but was mis-diagnosed
with migraines eventually during an extremely bad attack a
specialist in Germany (where we were at the time) recognized
what it was and operated, unfortunately she suffered allot
of damage. I was told I needed routine checks, which I did
for a bit but when I got to 30 I thought it had missed me.
Went for routine checkup at opticians, when I was 38, found
high pressures sent me up to the hospital. specialist did
iridectomies both eyes and was on pilocarpine 4%.. this didn't
reduce pressures, diagnosed then with plateau iris so iridoplasty
done on both eyes. The first one was ok but it didn't work
so he did it again, very painful the second time i felt my
iris move as soon as he started. Put on xalatan and things
seemed to settle but about 6 months later pressures up again
so added in timodol (I found this made me really tired) anyway
fine for couple of months then up again so drops changed to
pilocarpine 1% with bimatoprost. Same again settled for a
bit then I had an acute attack (thought i was having a brain
hemorrhage. it was awful) specialist then decided that it
is so unstable that he would do trabeculectomy. Had right
eye done 1/11/06 and left will be done in 8 weeks. Bit achy
and blurred vision but not too bad, I cant wait to get back
to some form of normality (if that is possible!)
Career: pharmacy technician
Personal: two children 5 and 14, both girls,
divorced
Hobbies: reading, stoolball, boxercise,
walking
Last update: November 12, 2006 |
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Shades
Born: November 1956
Residence: Illinois
Glaucoma Type: Closed-angle / plateau iris ???
Age diagnosed: 39
Glaucoma History: In 1995 I began having severe bouts of headaches and nausea every few months or so. Hospitalized twice for dehydration due to excessive vomiting; misdiagnosed as having migraines. When I noticed halos I began researching on my own. Symptoms of halos, headaches, eye pain, nausea and vomiting indicated glaucoma so I saw an plateau. IOP was in the 50s in the left eye. Had an iridotomy (l996) but pressure wasn't lowered enough. Sent to a glaucoma specialist in St. Louis. Over the next year and a half I went through the eye drop meds, laser zaps in attempt to push the iris back into place, trabelectomy and then a vitrectomy due to aqueous misdirection. Finally, the lens in the left eye was removed and I believe I had another vitrectomy at that time as well. Most of my visits to St. Louis were emergencies of pain and extreme nausea/vomiting (due to spiking IOP?) so don't remember much. End result is left eye has a permanently dilated pupil since the iris is stuck. No meds. Bleb closed so I wear contacts in both eyes. Eyes are light sensitive; sunglasses are a must. Everything has been fine for about four years. Just recently I began having that "headache/nausea" thing again and don't know if it's the left eye acting up again or the right eye starting to go. Either way, I am quite jittery of going thru those horrendous attacks. And, of course, every time I go in for a pressure check, the pressure is fine. I really dislike going in as an emergency, writhing in pain and nausea, before anything is done.
Career: Special education teacher
Personal: Married with two teenagers, a daughter a freshman in college and a son a sophomore in high school. All are very supportive and helpful, especially when I lose a contact, which is often.
Hobbies: Reading, movies, families and friends.
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Sheila
Residence: Westminster,
CA
Birth: April 1957
Glaucoma Type: Narrow-angle glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 52
Glaucoma History:
I was having terrible headaches above my eyes for about
a month. I had an MRI of my brain and nothing abnormal was
found. My opthamologist diagnosed narrow angle glaucoma.
I've had laser iridotomies in both eyes. However, it appears
as though the holes made in my iris are closing and I may
need the procedures done again.
Personal: I am Jewish and happily married,
living in sunny Southern California with my hubbie and two
wonderful cockapoo girls. I have two older children. My
daughter is married and my son is getting married this May.
Hobbies: I love the outdoors and taking
walks with my hubbie and two dogs, Bella Rose and Sophie.
I enjoy knitting and cooking. I also love doing crosswords
and playing a good game of Scrabble.
Last Update: December 20, 2009 |
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Sher
Residence: Indiana
Glaucoma Type: Narrow angle/plateau iris
syndrome
Age diagnosed: 44
Glaucoma History: I had a narrow angle attack
in rt. eye,apparently triggered by allergy med. Received good
reports after P.I.'s in each eye. A few months later rt. eye
again had an attack. Another (unsuccessful) P.I. resulted
in plateau iris syndrome diagnosis and referral to glaucoma
specialist who performed a gonioplasty...lasted about 5 mos.
Lens pressure resulted in another attack/damage/gonioplasty.
6 weeks later another attack due to previous damage and pressure
build-up resulted in a new open angle diagnosis in rt eye
and move to eye drops (6 laser surgeries over 12 mos span).
There is some damage to rt eye, but vision remains good and
I am very thankful.
Career: Teacher
Personal: I've been married 22 years and
have 2 sons. My husband and children have been very supportive
during the difficulties this past year.
I am a Christian and God has used this new challenge to teach
me several things. I am enjoying the "quiet" moments
and hoping to avoid new eye "surprises" for a while.
Hobbies: scrapbooking,
reading, gardening
Last update: December 28, 2005
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Sue I
Born: August 1952
Residence: Powder Springs, Ga.
Glaucoma
Type: Acute-angle-closure
Age diagnosed: 49
Glaucoma
History: Diagnosed August 2001, and am in the process of
looking for a specialist, for a second opinion, and was told that laser
surgery may correct the problem.
Career: Computer Data
Conversion/part-time makeup artist
Personal: I have been a runner for 25
years, recently taken up gardening, have spent 15 years in property
management, and moved to Atlanta six years ago from Cape Cod, spend my
free time with family back home and friends, here.
Hobbies: Running, reading, pottery,
shell creations, raising cockatiels, gardening (new to me but love it)
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Toodles
Born: September 1951
Residence: Houston TX
Glaucoma Type: Narrow angle glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 55
Glaucoma History: I suddenly experience flashing lights and
halos at night followed by headaches. Went to my opthamologist who I had
been seeing for 9 yrs said he suspect glaucoma. Got two second opinion.
final diagnosis narrow angle glaucoma. Did laser surgery in both eyes.
Lost a lot of peripheral vision. Takes 5 different drops. Pressure still
high, need to do trabeculectomy. Very scared.
Personal: Lab technologist
Hobbies: Travelling, dancing and cooking.
Last Update: August 9, 2007
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Victoria
Born: July 1958
Residence: New York
Glaucoma Type: Narrow-angle
Age diagnosed: 44
Glaucoma History: My older sister has also been diagnosed,. appears to run in our family.
Career: Teacher
Personal: I teach for a living and have two beautiful children that keep me very busy and of course I always worry if my eye sight will last me to their weddings!
Hobbies: I love to read and hang out at book stores.
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Vivian
aka Moderator Viv
Born: October 1961
Residence: Bucks County, PA
Glaucoma Type: Aqueous Misdirection Syndrome
Age diagnosed: 29
Glaucoma History: In my right eye I have had a trab,
lens implant and a pars planta vitrectomy in December 98.
I have had many lasers in my right eye as well, too many
to count. I have been on many eye drops. I get episcleritis
flare-ups from time to time, they are very painful. In 1994
I had lasers and trab in left eye. After both trabs I went
into aqueous misdirection. In April 2004 I underwent surgery
to have my right eye lid lifted. March 2005 my right eye
pressure was 15, the left was 37. They tried medications
to bring the pressure down but the pressure did not come
down low enough and my front chamber was still closed. I
was sent to a retina surgeon. The next day I underwent a
vitrectomy and lensectomy at Wills. I had my new lens implanted
May 2005. I am off the dilating drop and can see better
then I have in over ten years. October 2010, no drops, no
optic nerve damage, pressures in the teens, follow up six
months.
Career: Webmaster, Healthcare Informatics consultant,
former CT technologist
Personal: I have a crazy Chihuahua. Member
of the World
Glaucoma Patient Association's (WGPA) Executive
Board.
Hobbies: Golf, computers, quoits, social media.
Last update: April 5, 2011
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woodbrazs
Residence: Indiana
Glaucoma Type: Narrow angle
Age diagnosed: 45
Glaucoma History: Had
iridotomy in both eyes June of 2010. Pressures more stable,
still experience blurred vision and what I call shadowy
peripheral vision. I also have beams of light that will
occasionally appear in the right lighting conditions via
the holes made in my irises.
Personal bio: I am a freelance photographer
and writer.
Hobbies:
reading, cooking, hiking, atv riding, music, gardening.
Last Update: April 5, 2011 |
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ICE syndrome
Cath
Born: December 1949
Residence: Oakland CA
Glaucoma Type: Secondary glaucoma - result of Cogan Reese Syndrome
Age diagnosed:
Glaucoma History: I was diagnosed with Cogan Reese Syndrome - that causes glaucoma as a secondary characteristic of the disease process. My iris is deteriorating, my cornea is showing signs of disease. I am told I will need repeated surgeries for this disease and am trying to figure out how I am going to do this, and still keep my job. In February 2002 I underwent a trab with Mitimycin C and shots of 5fu. Pressure and vision stable for the moment.
Career: Non-profit housing
Personal: I am a 51 year old single woman, who has worked in the field of non-profit affordable housing my whole life. This eye problem has me completely bewildered as it appears I will be out of work repeatedly over the next couple of years and can't figure it all out.
Hobbies: I have a Standard Poodle Henry, who is with me almost always. I am part of a land collective over the past 25 years and have built my own cabin on a 160 acre parcel of land in rural Mendocino county in northern California, and spend lots of time there. I love to play racquetball and hike, read and cook.
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CindyLu
Born: November 1957
Residence: Wisconsin
Glaucoma Type: Chandlers Syndrome
Age diagnosed: 45
Glaucoma History: Diagnosed 3 weeks ago with Chandlers after
seeing halo's on my way to work in the morning. Pressure was found to be 38 and had emergency laser surgery to decrease pressure and next week saw Glaucoma Specialist and was diagnosed with Chandlers. Having drainage tube placement soon (March 2003). My pupil is displaced but no pain, no dizziness, don't have alot of known symptoms except the increased eye pressure and the pupil. Synechea are seen, guess I'm in for a ride. Just don't know much about it yet, but I'm sure I will learn as I go along.
Career: Registered Nurse
Personal: 45 yer old single mother with grown child. My companion's name is Echo and she is a pitbull-dalmation mix. I work full time as a medical/surgical nurse and have worked at the same place for 22 years. Am currently building my dream home of a log cabin in the country.
Hobbies: My love is the internet and going for long walks with my dog. I enjoy gardening and eating chocolate. I love to be outdoors when the weather is appropriate. |
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Duffer
Born: September 1958
Residence: Florence, Montana
Glaucoma Type: Chandler's Syndrome
Age diagnosed: 38
Glaucoma History: Noticed a drop in my pupil and had it checked. Diagnosed as Chandlers Syndrome. Pressure is remaining steady pupil is slowly enlarging and iris deteriorating.
Career: Real estate/ Ranching/Riding
Personal: Married, 5 horses, 2 dogs, 3 cats. On a ranch in Montana - transplanted from California. Work in real estate, show hunter/jumpers, golf, fly fish.
Last update: October 28, 2003 |
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Fiona
Born: August 1962
Residence: Wellington, NZ
Glaucoma Type: Cogan Reese Syndrome (ICE)
Age diagnosed: 40
Glaucoma History: Felt like I had something in my eye, after a few days went for an eye test and had a IOP reading of 30 in my left eye. I went to a specialist who diagnosed wrong, then when I lost most of my vision I went straight to the hospital. They got my pressure down and several weeks later was diagnosed with ICE Syndrome. Have had a trabeculectomy in my left eye and the pressure is at 9. Vision is not what it used to be but it is not to bad. No family history of glaucoma.
Career: Caregiver
Personal: I am a single mother of two boys, 19 yrs and 13 yrs. (2002)
Hobbies: Hunting, fishing, tropical fish.
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Deb (ICE)
Blog: journeythruicesyndrome.blogspot.com
Born: November 1962
Residence: Kansas City
Glaucoma Type: ICE
Age diagnosed: 38
Glaucoma History: Optometrist noticed
odd-shaped pupil & high pressure (30) in right eye in
late 2000. Opthalmologist identified as ICE in January 2001.
Various cocktails of meds controlled pressure until late
2003. Had trab surgery November 2003. Within 2 weeks, had
incredible pain behind right eye and right side of face.
Pressure was around 40+ and probably had peaked at 60. Emergency
needling to trab was done to relieve pressure. After going
through another pain session a second time a few short weeks
later, decision made to have Ahmed shunt implant in February
2004. With use of Cosopt, pressure has remained normal.
Cataract has developed in right eye and will have cataract
surgery soon. My left eye is healthy...just near-sighted...and
I am so thankful for that healthy eye!
Career: Stay at home Mom
Personal: Married with 5 year old son.
I have BA/MBA Degrees and worked in high tech sales for
14 years. After adopting our awesome son, I became a stay-at-home
mom and love it!
Hobbies: Sports...either watching or
playing soccer, baseball or basketball with my 5 year old
son. Love to watch college basketball too. Other interests
include antiquing, decorating...and trying to excercise
on a regular basis!
Last Update: May 11,
2005 |
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Hilly
Born: July 1974
Residence: Ireland
Glaucoma Type: ICE
Age diagnosed: 26
Glaucoma History: No family history
Personal: I
was diagnosed with Normal Tension Glaucoma over six years
ago. As a result I was on numerous medications but the pressure
kept climbing. I had two trabs ... pressure was ok for about
6 months after the second one and then it went up again.
I was never really happy with my doctor. He never answered
my questions properly and then at the end of it all said
he couldnt do anything else for me and advised me to go
and see someone else. I did and found a wonderful doctor
who listens and explains everything to me ... He then said
that I didnt have normal tension glaucoma that I had the
ICE syndrome and explained it all and that it was only in
the one eye (sometimes I worry that I will get it in my
other eye even though he says I wont). Anyway I had my third
trab a year and a half ago. Had a few problems after the
op but eventually worked itself out and was enjoying a normal
life. Until a few weeks before I was getting married I went
to see him and the pressure had worked up again to 23 but
the bleb still functioning. Anyway went off and got married
and went back to see him today and its gone up more to 26
so I\'m facing some shots of mitomycin and hopefully that
will enable the bleb to start draining again. I would love
to here from other ICE people and hear how they are getting
on. Feel free to email me
Hobbies: Running, sailing and traveling
...
Last update: November 5, 2005
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Hye
Born: September 1937
Residence: Las Vegas, NV
Glaucoma Type: ICE Syndrome
Age diagnosed: 65
Glaucoma History: Blurred vision in left eye for 7 years after cataract surgery. Finally diagnosed just last year w/ICE. Gluacoma pressure up to 30,tried various drops, when doctor added cosopt, changed to trusopt along w/zalatan, alphgan caused irregular heart rate increase.
Career: Retired
Personal: Worked in the casino business here in Las Vegas for many years, then went into real estate. Now retired. I have a comforable life with a great man, many friends, and a wonderful family.
Hobbies: Competitive distance runner & swimmer. I weight train, & pracitice yoga. I am a 66 year old jock. Also send alot of time with my 3 grandkids whom I adore.
Last update: April 9, 2004 |
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ICEsyndrome (Sherri)
Born: September 1955
Email: sheanderson@yahoo.com
Residence: California, USA
Glaucoma Type: Irido Corneal Endothelium
(ICE) Syndrome
Age diagnosed: 30's
Glaucoma History: Pupil changed at age
28-29; Glaucoma became present around age 38; 5/96 first
Ahmed Valve inserted; 11/96 second Ahmed Valve inserted;
5/97 first Ahmed Valve replaced; 9/97 inserted Baerveldt
implant inserted; 12/99 cataract surgery; 3/2002 cornea
transplant and trimming of two of the three tubes. Volunteered
for layoff for best results on my eye. This affects right
eye only. The valves alone did not work. I met a doctor
on-line who suggested in addition to the medication drops
I was using with the valves/implant, to apply message/pressure
to the eye. I did and the pressure has been controlled every
since. That's my story and I'm very interested in anyone
else's story with ICE Syndrome. There is not many of us
around.
Career: Aerospace - UNIX
Personal: Female, married and living in
Southern California. One daughter, no history of glaucoma
in family.
Hobbies: Walking, swimming, yard work,
cycling, cooking, skiing when my depth perception allows
it. |
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lacool
Born: October 1962
Residence: Simi Valley
Glaucoma Type: Ice syndrome, Chandlers
Yahoo ID: grredbeachjeep
Age diagnosed: 42
Glaucoma History: My pupil moved in 1997, I could see fine then. My right eye was very foggy. I went to specialist who said I could get a corneal transplant.
Career: Computers
Personal: Single, blondish hair, blue eyes
Hobbies: Snow skiing, body surfing, music, good food.
Last update: December 15, 2004 |
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janicey_72
Born: February 1972
Residence: Santa Barbara, CA
Glaucoma Type: ICE syndrome
Age diagnosed: 33
Glaucoma History: After five months of doctors not being sure why I had elevated pressure, I was diagnosed with ICE syndrome in May 2005 at Jules Stein Institute. Rainbow halos and cloudy vision were my symptoms. Most of my stress came from doctors that were slow to diagnose, or made jokes about it. I have not had any changes in the visual appearance of my eye yet. IOP was ranging from 22-32. I was on Betimol, Alphagan, and Xalatan, but pressure was still around 27-29. Alphagan left me exhausted. Found a great new dr. that performed a trab. I was surprised by how much the surgery knocked me out for about 6 weeks, and how bad my eye looked after the surgery, but my eye has been recovering nicely. Pressure has stayed low, was around 6 for four months, and now is at 10. Finding a dr. that listened and was knowledgeable was more than half the battle! Still no change in my pupil or iris, but I was on atropine after the surgery, and my pupil took a very long time to come down in size. Now six months later it is just slightly larger than the normal eye. My vision was pretty bad after the surgery, but at 5 months was back to 20/20 (still slightly blurry from time to time, I\'m guessing from slight pressure changes). Two great grandparents had glaucoma. No other family history of anything like this. Feel free to email me!
Hobbies: Walking, shopping, beach, movies, golf, hiking, biking, travel
Personal: I grew up on the east coast
and moved to CA for a job in 2001. Fell in love w/the west
coast and decided to stay. Just last year fell in love w/a
great man who lived in the midwest, but moved to CA to be
with me.
Email: janicey_72@yahoo.com
Career: Marketing
Last update: July 29, 2005
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JarvisK
(Yahoo Instant Messenger)
Born: January 1953
Residence: North Carolina
Glaucoma Type: ICE - Chandlers Syndrome
Age diagnosed: 49
Glaucoma History: I started feeling like something
was in my eye and it hurt really bad. I had not idea what
it was, it would feel better later in the day. That went on
for a week, because I was on vacation in Naples, Florida.
When I got home, I went to an eye doctor and he said I had
dry eye, gave me drops to use. It was still bad, I went to
another doctor and he said the same thing. I then went to
a specialist who called in another specialist and they together
said I had ICE disease. I have had cataract surgery and am
now looking at having a corneal transplant sometime in the
next few months.
Career: Banking/Loan Officer
Personal: I am a 52 year old female. Married
for 33 years with one son who is 26, married and lives in
Naples, Florida. I have been with the same bank for 30 years
where I am a loan officer. I have four cats and absolutely
love animals. My glass is always half full and I love life.
Hobbies: My husband and I love to travel,
cruise, fly, whatever. We go to Naples alot to visit our son
and his wife. We love Christian music and going to Christian
concerts. We work with the elderly in nursing homes and also
troubled teens in a juvinile delinquent school near us. My
husband is disabled due to diabetes (he was with the same
company for 30 years also before becoming sick). I am concerned
about losing my vision and being able to keep my job,insurance,
etc. Thankfully, I have this in only one eye (left).
Last update: January 6, 2006 |
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Jo
Born: January 1970
Residence: Maryland
Glaucoma Type: ICE and narrow angle
Age diagnosed: 35
Glaucoma History: I was diagnosed with
glaucoma three years ago and have been on quite the roller
coaster ride ever since. I have had numerous surgeries in
an attempt to control my pressures as well as maintain my
sight; pressures sky rocketing as high as 70 at times. I
am currently awaiting my second corneal transplant....and
holding my own in regards to the pressures.
Career: Licensed Massage Therapist and
Mommy
Hobbies: Spending
time with my twin daughters, exercising, biking, reading
and laughing.
Personal: I am kind of waiting to see
where this journey of mine takes me.....it has definitely
been a long/eventful few years. I figure it can only get
better from here.
"Settle for nothing less than magnificence in your
life. Your emotions fuel your energy, and your energy fuels
your future."
Last update: January 28, 2008 |
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Kay36
Born: December 1969
Glaucoma Type: ICE Syndrome
Age diagnosed: 35
Glaucoma History: I noticed my pupil was
irregular at age 33. Was misdiagnosed as Adie's pupil. Correctly
diagosed at age 35 as ICE syndrome. This has deteriorated
quickly over the past year. I had emergency trab surgery
in February 2006 after pressure of 48 uncontrolled with
glaucoma drops. Ended up with hypotony for a few weeks with
lowest pressure of 2. I had a few good weeks and now just
went threw another high pressure of 42. I'm back on the
glaucoma drops, massage, predforte, and acular. The trab
might need needling if this doesn't resolve on it's own.
I only have this in my right eye and my vision is 20/25
in that eye. My other eye is great 20/15.
My trabeculectomy in my right eye done
in Febuary 2006 failed and I had shunt surgery at the end
of June. It has been 2 weeks since the surgery and things
seem to be going much better from the start with this surgery
compared with the trab. My IOP was 11 at last check and
I don't have to use glaucoma meds so far. I'm hopeful that
this will buy my eye some good time athough my doctor told
me that my case of ICE is a very aggressive one and seems
to be changing fast. I am so lucky to have a fabulous doctor
who I have complete confidence in. I think that help relieve
a lot of stress in this situation. I'm keeping my fingers
crossed and thanking God for every day I can see to do what
I need/want to do in life and for my healthy left eye!
Career: Stay at home mom
Personal: 36 year old stay-at-home mom
of three kids.
Hobbies: I love sewing, reading, spending
time with my kids.
Last update: April 5, 2006 |
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Maggie
Residence: Perth, Australia
Glaucoma Type: ICE syndrome
Birthday: September
1954
Age diagnosed: 37
Glaucoma History:
Seeing haloes around lights at night. Suffering with migraines.
Went for routine eye check and was told I had high pressure
in my left eye; it has only ever affected my left eye. My
right eye is unaffected. For the first 10 years I was treated
for glaucoma, my IOP was always out of control despite good
compliance with various medications. In the last 10 years
my eye specialist has been calling it ICE syndrome due to
characteristic changes in my cornea. I have lost my eyesight
in that eye to seeing light only. Currently I am suffering
bouts of pain with my eye watering due to small blisters
under my cornea. I'm wearing a bandage contact lens which
gives me some relief. Would like to see more research into
this disease.
Personal bio: I'm a 56 year old
female.
Married to Paul.
We live in Ocean Reef a suburb just north of Perth - it's
just beautiful here.
I have a cat called Jock.
I work part-time as a medical transcriptionist.
Also do some part-time work as an interpreter.
I consider my friends to be my best asset!
I have a positive outlook and a good imagination.
Hobbies:
I love cooking, gardening, reading, decorating the house,
travelling. I love writing. I go the gym twice a week and
enjoy the pump class and zumba classes.
Last Update: July 18, 2011 |
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Michael
W
Residence: Bay City, MI
Birth: October 1938
Glaucoma Type: Chandlers Syndrome ICE
Age diagnosed: 30
Glaucoma History: Was
1st told eye pain was due to stress. Finally diagnosed as
glaucoma. Examined at Univ. of Mich. Hospital and end result
was Chandlers Syndrome. Prescribed Alphagan, Co-Sopt, Xalatan,
Pilocarpine, etc and pressure ranged from 18-40. Been treating
with three different specialists and finally consulted a
glaucoma specialist, very young and knowledgable last week
and surgery is being scheduled soon. Pressure is 40 and
optic nerve is 0. Laser treatment was preformed to no avail.
Vision(L eye) is the diseased eye and sight is about 3%.The
eye is gone and surgery will prolong the pain for 3-5 years.
Cost of medications is a factor. Apprx $200-$300 per month
which is very sad. I also have a cataract on the left eye
that they were afraid to remove.
Hobbies: Currently,
I coach a local high school's crew/rowing team. I am a professional
ice skating instructor. I am also a crewman/environmental
instructor for two local schooners, Appledore IV and Appledore
V. I have a young Labradoodle that keeps me busy and I enjoy
inline and ice skating and I am a very ardent sculler and
own my own 26 foot long Schoenbrod shell.
Personal: Retired from
Gen. Motors in 1992 and presently working for a local high
school as a hall monitor.
Last Update: March 12, 2008 |
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mcgif001
Born: April 1957
Residence: Durham, N.C.
Glaucoma Type: Chandler's Syndrome
Age diagnosed: 40
Glaucoma History: Started seeing halo in right
eye, immediately on medication to control pressure,this
did not work. Doctor tried bleb but could not control pressure
differences. Finally seen by Duke Eye Center after infection
entered anterior chamber, Glaucoma and Cornea services rebuilt
my eye and daily eye drops maintain my current pressure.
Very long road of treatment, I am seeing 20/40 in my right
eye.
Personal: Currently I am a full time student
and working at Duke Hospital near the Eye Center as a nurses
aide. My plans are to earn a nursing degree. I am married
with two teenage daughters, and have lots of support since
I have gone back to school.
Hobbies: I use to be very active with Wintergreen
Ski Patrol, but school leaves me little free time to do
much of anything else.
Last Update: November 23, 2007 |
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Mom22
Born: December 1958
Residence: Allentown, PA
Glaucoma Type: Chandlers Syndrome
Age diagnosed: 46
Glaucoma History: High IOP\'s detected at routine
eye exam -21 left eye/24 right eye. Luckily referred directly
to glaucoma specialist - tried xalatan for one month and
pressures went up to 24 left/31 right! Switched to betimol
and after one month pressures are 19 left/24 right - everything
looks good so far - no optic nerve damage, eye sight unchanged,
visual field good. Hoping for the best but very scared!
Future is unknown - just told that I very possibly have
chandlers syndrome - what is this? How does this change
my outlook? Any comments/help would be much appreciated!
Career: Stay at Home Mom (Chauffeur)
Personal:Married 14 years, two great girls - both
early teens (HELP!!) - home with girls since they were born.
Hobbies: Skiing, walking, reading, archery,
watching many sporting events every week (soccer, lacrosse,
track, etc.)
Last Update: April 22, 2005 |
|
LuAnn
Born: October 1958
Residence: Waco, TX
Glaucoma Type: Secondary to ICE syndrome
Age diagnosed: 32
Glaucoma History: Blurred vision in right eye at age 32. Dx with ICE. Had Moltino implants in '91. Corneal transplant in '98, but is rejecting. IOP from 22-49. Good days, bad days. Taking Betagan and Pred.
Career: Veterinarian
Personal: Divorced. One son with no ocular problems. No history of familial traits.
Hobbies: Water sports, softball, basketball, motorcycling. |
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| Manday
Born: December 1959
Residence: Bournemouth, UK
Glaucoma Type: ICE Syndrome
Age diagnosed: 42
Glaucoma History: I recently had a lens
fitted to stop the pain and it seems to be working. I take
three lots of eye drops a day. I have lost the sight in
my left eye but my right eye is ok.
Career: Teaching Assistant
Personal: I take timoptol maleate for pressure,
Minims chloramphenicol and a lubricant.
Hobbies: I am married with 2 children aged 16
and 21. I like gardening and my husband and I like eating
out and going on holiday.
Last Update: March 10, 2005 |
|
|
Mei
Born: June 1956
Residence: Everett, WA
Glaucoma Type: ICE Syndrome
Age diagnosed: 45
Glaucoma History: ICE diagnosed in 2001. Medications
controlled IOP till November 2002, then had trab in 2002.
My left left eye has been checked by Dr. Philip Chen at
UW (awesome MD!. I am so thankful he did my surgery but
ICE is progressive disease and I don't know when the filters
around my eyes will be all blocked.
Career: Pharmacist
Personal: Worked as a pharmacist for 25 years!
Mainly I am worried what to do if I lose my eye sight. I
wonder I need to find a second career. Any ideas?
Hobbies: Love to sing. When I feel overwhelmed
with the thought of losing eye sight, I listen to opera
and classical music and sing away the depressive thougts.
Last Update: November 17, 2005 |
|
MustangMomma
Born: March 1955
Residence: Nashville, TN
Glaucoma Type: Secondary to I.C.E.
Age diagnosed: 46
Glaucoma History: My son noticed that my
eye looked like a cats eye in Aug of 2000. After months &
countless trips to the Vandy Eye Clinic the doctor told me
I had I.C.E. I think he knew very little about my problem.
I went on-line and found lots of info and refered myself to
the National Eye Institute. I meet and was educated by a Dr.
Kupfer. While in Maryland I was also told I had Cystoid Macular
Edema. This was not noticed by the doctor I had been seeing.
When I came back to Tennessee I was put on several types of
eye drops. By Dec. 2000 I was told I now had glaucoma. My
pressure was checked weekly for 3 or so months, each week
it continued to rise. When the pressure got to 40 and I was
in lots of pain emergency surgery was done at 2:00am in March
of 2001 to bring the pressure down. I had a Ahmed shunt inplanted.
I had a new Doctor that was great. The problem from the shunt
implant was double vision. I was put on several new drops.
The drops caused cataracts. My pressure remained stable until
July 2003. My pressure went back up and I had to have another
surgery to remove scar tissue from around the shunt. After
the shunt scaring was removed the cataract got really bad.
In Jan 2004 the cataracts were removed. The surgery caused
the corneal to cloud and the pressure to rise. Drops took
care of the pressure but I was told the clouded corneal would
need a transplant. I was told I could not get a corneal transplant
until the glaucoma shunt was moved. To move the ahmed shunt
I must have the vitreous gel removed first. My shunt for the
glaucoma will be moved May 12, 2004. If the pressure then
is stable I get a corneal transplant in Sept. 2004. I wished
I had better info in 2000. If you have glaucoma and you have
the slightest possible chance that you might need a corneal
transplant, ask... no..demand your glaucoma doctor puts the
shunt threw the gel so you can by pass extra surgery, because
with each surgery the risk for higher pressure is present.
Personal: I am a 49 year old white female
that has been married almost 31 years with 2 children born
in 1976 and 1977. I have no other medical promblems. I am
as healthy as a horse.
Hobbies: My favorite pass time is reading
Stephen King books. My second pass time is cat fishing. I
love to ski and play slow pitch softball.
Last update: May 1, 2004 |
|
| Ted
Born: April
Residence: San Jose, CA
Glaucoma Type: Possible Chandlers
Age diagnosed: 44
Glaucoma History: I used to wear contact
lenses daily for about 7 years. Then one day, I developed
an eye infection. My doctor was not sure if was a bacterial
or viral infection. I do not think it was a viral infection
because I did not have any lesions around my eye. My doctor
gave me Tobarex for my left eye, and two days later I developed
corneal edema in my eye. I went to an eye specialist and
they told me to stop using Tobarex. I week later the corneal
edema went away. I did not use contact lenses for two months.
Once I started using my contact lenses the corneal edema
come back. I now wake up with corneal edema every morning.
I use Muro 128% 5 drops to keep the corneal edema in check.
It works somewhat - but my eye sees clearly by the afternoon.
I have visited 4 cornea specialist in San Jose/Palo Alto.
One specialist told me that I have Chandler Syndrome and
it requires a cornea transplant. This certianly scared me.
The other specialists told me that I do not require such
a cornea transplant at this time. I do have 20/20 with my
bad eye. I have now had cornea edema for two years - and
it has not gotten worse. If it were Chandler Syndrome -
I would think that my eye would have continued to deterioate.
Career: VP Sales
Personal: College Educated. MBA. Single.
Professional in high-tech sales.
Hobbies: I enjoy working out the gym.
I also like travel and films.
Last Update: March 8, 2005 |
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Timminnix
Born: July 1953
Residence: TX
Glaucoma Type: ICE Syndrome
Age diagnosed: 53
Glaucoma History: Brief glaucoma history On
May 1, 2007 I woke up seeing rainbow halos and had blurred
vision in my right eye. I went to my eye doctor and he said
my pressure was around 40. Gave me drops and I returned
to see him the next day. Pressure still at 40. The following
day I went to see a glaucoma specialist, who diagnosed me
with Iridocorneal Endothelial Syndrome (ICE). After experimenting
with several combinations of eye drops, finally my pressure
has been between 10 - 20. My vision varies pretty dramatically.
My doctor says this is due to corneal edema. I am seeking
feedback from anyone who has located a specialist who has
treated multiple cases of ICE.
Personal: tim @ minnixcompanies.com
Hobbies: Reading, golf, fishing, travel, grandchildren
Last Update: June 6, 2007
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Sue
Ann
Born: October
Residence: Pamplico, SC
Glaucoma Type: ICE
Age diagnosed: 35
Glaucoma History: I was diagnosed with ICE
Syndrome in my left eye in early 1998 at the age of 35. Within
6 months I had acute episode of elevated IOP up to 56 and
the pressure was unable to be controlled with drops or oral
medication. I was referred to Duke University where I had
a Baerveldt glaucoma implant placed in December of 1998 with
great success. Although the pressure normalized, I continued
to have episodes of pain and difficulty with vision. I had
a corneal transplant in November of 2002 and have done relativily
well until the past month when my corneal graft failed; thought
to be caused by the glaucoma shunt tube pressing on it. I
am scheduled for a repeat corneal transplant with vitrectomy
and revision of the gluacoma shunt tube, as well as cataract
removal in a little over two weeks.
Career: RN-Infection Control Practitioner
Personal: I am a married mother of two wonderful
teenagers, ages 13 & 15. I am a registered nurse and currenly
work as an Infection Control Practitoner in a local healthcare
system. Also, operate a small farm raising miniature donkeys
and coastal bermuda hay.
Hobbies: Gardening and wood carving.
Last update: February 19, 2007 |
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Sunshine
Born: January 1948
Residence: Fairfax, Missouri
Glaucoma Type: Secondary due to ICE syndrome
Age diagnosed: 51
Glaucoma History: I have had 2 trabs, which were unsuccessful, then a shunt was implanted, now the shunt needs to be repositioned, then they will do a corneal transplant and then remove the cataract. I have been on predforte for 1 1/2 years along with various other drops. (2/2002)
Career: Secretary
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Susan P. H.
Born: September 1952
Residence: San Bernardino Mountains-CA
Glaucoma Type: ICE Syndrome-(Essential Iris Atrophy)
Age diagnosed: 48
Glaucoma History: I was working one night two years ago and felt a searing pain in my right eye. When I looked in the mirror I saw that part of my pupil had come apart. I was diagnosed a few weeks later with Essential Iris Atrophy. For the 1st year I had markedly increased light sensitivity and used a colored contact lens to counteract this. In 3/02 I went in for a cornea check and my IOP was 36 (my pupil was in multiple pieces at that point). 5/02 I had a trabelectomy as my IOP was not responding to multiple medications. 12/02 I had a 2nd trabelectomy as my 1st one closed. 7 weeks after my 2nd "trab" I had built up excessive scar tissue and it had sealed over. Diamox, other meds, and needle release provided only temporary relief of elevated IOP's. I was then dx'd with malignant glaucoma due to a "backflow" problem and had an Ahmed shunt placed last week. At this point I do not have much of an iris left; my pupil is in several pieces; my cornea is now showing changes; I have a
cataract; and will need a lens placed shortly. My left eye has 20/25 vision and is doing great. I have spoke online with Sherri for the last year and she is the only one I know with this syndrome.
Career: Registered Nurse-Donor Transplant Coordinator
Personal: (March 2003) I am 50 years old, married, have a 14 year old daughter, 2 step-children, and 4 grand-children (through my step-kids). I live on 5 acres in the San Bernardino Mountains. I have been a nurse for 20 years...the last 11 years as a Transplant Coordinator working with donor families. I have a full life, a great family, and have been blessed with many friends. My personal frustration recently is coping with the ramifications of having a disability--mainly with how it affects your career and how others perceive you.
Hobbies: Swimming, waterskiing (which is on hold for now), dancing, reading, traveling in our RV, gardening, and enjoying time with family, friends, and my animals.
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Inflammatory glaucoma
Booksandhooks (Donna)
Born: May 1955
Residence: Pennsylvania
Glaucoma Type: Secondary
Age diagnosed: 44
Glaucoma History: Glaucoma was caused by inflammation caused for years from uvitius. Using pred forte for about 30 years. Drops eventually did the job of causing all side effects including cateracts and glacoma along with retinal inflamation, top and bottom shunt placed this summer, only option after a regimen of drops were experimented with. I never new cosopt was a beta blocker. I was on cosopt, alaphan, pred forte and xalatan, all in one day.
Career: Preschool teacher
Personal: Married with 2 children girl 15 and boy 12 (Oct 2001), hard working
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Diane
Residence: North Carolina
Birth: March 1955
Glaucoma Type: Inflammatory (steroid responder)
Age diagnosed: 54
Glaucoma History: I
have had uveitis for 20 years. at the end of 2009 and beginning
of 2010 I had Ahmed implants in each eye.
Personal
Bio: Married. One dog. Church musician. Putting
in eye drops.
Hobbies:
Putting in eye drops.
Last Update: April 6, 2010 |
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Kate
Born: January 1948
Residence: Vancouver, BC, Canada
Glaucoma Type: Secondary
Age diagnosed: 26
Glaucoma History: Glaucoma came about because
of pulmonary hypertension which is a result of lupus. Glaucoma
could also be a result of many years of prednisone use.
Career: Teacher
Last Update: October 28, 2005 |
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Lisa
Born: 1970
Residence: Vancouver, Canada
Glaucoma Type: Inflammatory glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 20
Glaucoma History: I was diagnosed with iritis/uveitis at age 6, it was hard to control and by the time I was 20 I had cataracts and secondary glaucoma. In 1980 and 1982 I had my lenses removed and no IOLs. In 1984-85 I had several trabeculectomies in my left eye and a number of experimental procedures (ultrasound, 6 weeks of 5-FU injections etc.) I had more trabeculectomies on the left eye in 1990 and 1995. In 1993 I had a corneal transplant in the left eye and an IOL was inserted. Recently that transplant failed and I had another one in April, 2003. Currently the pressure in my left eye is 5, the pressure in my right eye bounces between 15 and 27. The iritis is recalcitrant but I am a steroid responder so it's a balancing act. I'm probably looking at a trabeculectomy in the right eye eventually. My vision is pretty good, but unreliable.
Career: former writer, training to be massage therapist
Personal: I was a freelance writer (fiction, non-fiction) for about 14 years. I decided in April to go back to school and train to be a Registered Massage Therapist. This is a 3 year course. I'm married to a high school science teacher. We are trying to get pregnant.
Hobbies: Writing, reading, Tai Chi
Last update: October 14, 2003 |
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Madeline
Born: March 1945
ICQ Number: 102854066
Residence: Columbus, Ohio
Age diagnosed: 53
Glaucoma History: Diagnosed with Glaucoma and Uveitis 4 years ago. When Uveitis is active (every 2 -3 months), IOP has ranged from a low of 32R/22L to a high of 56R/32L. Have tried many eye drops. Currently on Alphagan P, Trusopt, and Xalatan. Pressure currently in mid-twenties. For control of Uveitis, currently on Methotraxate and Prednisone. Have developed cataracts. The one in the right eye has grown significantly. Under the care of three Opthamologists. Surgery is planned for Cataracts and Glaucoma when Uveitis has been under control for an acceptable period. Biggest concern is whether the recurring Uveitis will negatively affect the success of the lens implant.
Career: Recently retired
Personal: Graduated from University of Akron a long time ago. Have always worked in social service and employment service field. Retired in April 2002.
Hobbies: Ceramics and playing around on the computer.
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MMM
Born: September 1949
Residence: Southern California
Glaucoma Type: Secondary
Age diagnosed: 52
Glaucoma History: After 5 years of uveitis, glaucoma began in one eye. Trabeculectomy 02/2002 resulted in low pressure and vision loss. I will have surgery soon to try to regain vision. Meanwhile the other eye began elevated pressures immediately following the trabeculectomy. Another trabeculectomy coming soon.
Career: Teacher
Personal: Elementary school teacher and mother of two.
Hobbies: Trying not to mix up the drops. One eye has a pressure of 2, the other almost 50. |
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Shawn
Born: 1968
Residence: Ohio
Glaucoma Type: Secondary, Open Angle -
Right Eye
Age diagnosed: 10
Glaucoma History: I was born with cataracts
in both eyes. The surgical procedure of the day was Intracapsular
cataract extraction. A "harsh" surgery by today's
standards in which they remove the lens from the eye resulting
in a life of thick, high powered contacts or glasses. It's
also the cause of my glaucoma. However, without the surgery
I would be blind today. Along with a host of other vision
deficiencies I'm amblyopic meaning (in my case) my right
eye (glaucoma eye) has much better vision than my left.
I first became aware of my glaucoma at age 10 when I saw
rainbows and couldn't see the chalk on the chalkboard. Medications
didn\'t work and I had a host of surgeries around the age
of 12. The highest I recall my pressure being was well above
60. The pain at the time was so great (headache, nausea,
etc) that it was the only time in l my life that I wished
I was dead. Today, the pressure has stabilized at 15-18
with the help of Timoptic, Pilocarpine, and Diamox but new
problems have emerged. Not to scare anyone but the years
of toxicity exposure from the medication (i.e. Pilo), along
with the cataract surgery, have weakened the endothelium
layer of my cornea. The result: swelling of the cornea,
hazy vision and rainbows. I'm due to see a cornea specialist
in January to see about a new, high tech cornea replacement
known as Deep lamellar endothelial keratoplasty. But, that
has many risks including decreased vision. In the interim,
we\'re tinkering with my meds trying to remove the toxicity
agents while maintaining a stable IOP and keep the cornea
swelling down. I take my medications religiously, and every
few years spend a day at the MD's office getting my pressure
checked hourly to watch for spikes. It\'s helpful so that
I know the best time of day to take my meds.
Personal: I'm married to possibly the best girl
in the world and have an absolutely wonderful son - if only
I had half his energy. I workout like a nut and love my
job. In lieu of my recent developments I'm hopeful that
my MD & I can find a balance between physiology and
pharmacology that will allow me to maintain my current lifestyle
another 30 years without the need for cornea surgery. I
also want to say I'm most impressed with what others have
written. Our's is not an easy life but it seems no one has
let glaucoma get the best of him/her.
Hobbies: Running, lifting
weights, listening to music, sampling red wine, reading,
and trying to keep up with my son.
Career: Engineer at
NASA
Last update: December 15, 2006 |
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susjjan
Born: January 1973
Residence: Winter Haven, FL
Glaucoma Type: Secondary Glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 24
Glaucoma History: I started out with iritis (Right eye only) caused from an autoimmune disease called Reiters syndrome. Had iritis for 2 years and the pressures were going up due to the iris sticking to the cornea, at one point the IOP in the right eye hit 46. I have had 6 laser iridectomy over the past 7 years. I had one more bout of iritis 2 years ago for 1 year. By this time I had lost most vision out of my eye due to cataract or optic nerve wasn't sure. One year ago my doctor suggested shunt surgery, now it is a year later, my pressure is up to 50 and I am going in for shunt surgery on July 17, 2002. I will keep everyone updated. Thanks
Career: Software Developer
Personal: I live about 20 minutes from DisneyWorld and spend altogether too much time and money there. I have a wonderful spouse(not married yet) and four small dogs and one huge yard.
Hobbies: I enjoy gardening, painting (oils and watercolors), foreign films, and swimming. |
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sweett5378
Born: April 1973
YAHOO ID: sweett5378 @ yahoo.com
Residence: Virginia
Glaucoma Type: Uveitic
Age diagnosed: 28
Glaucoma History: I had just had two trabeculectomies within two months..the first time the surgery did not work. The incision suck up my iris which raised the pressure back up.
Career: Information Systems Technician
Personal: I have had uveitis since May of 2001. I started out with photobia and the it all went down hill. I have maintaind pressure of 37-52 for almost a year until the decided to do surgery. I am on every eye drop you can think of..it got so bad I was having black outs, now since I have been through two trabeculectomy surgerys I am still in pain. My pressures are 21-27 in left eye and 17 in right eye which was the one that had the surgery. I have also developed cataracts in both eyes now and on top of that suffering from migraines and the bad part about it is that, they don't know how I go it. All my blood work is normal and all the Cat scan and MRI's are normal but one. One came back with fossa calcification. I have been with uveitis for a year now and I am hating life. (June 2002)
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TomCat
Born: August 1964
Residence: North Vancouver, B.C.
Glaucoma Type: Open-angle complication of uveitis
Age diagnosed: 32
Glaucoma History: I have panuveitis with multifochal choroiditis, an ocular inflamatory disease that is among the three leading causes of preventable blindness in the world. I am a steroid responder, meaning my pressure goes up when I use a lot of topical steroids. After a steroid (prednisone) shot to my eye, my pressure went into the 50's. I had a trabulectomy that overfiltered my eye for 5 months and after removing cataract left me with 200/400 vision, I was already blind in the other eye. I now have a form of wet macular degeneration that I am trying to deal with, a result of hypotony maculapathy, 0-5 IOP in my eye for five months.
Had a revised trab, then 2 cataract surgeries, and am on chemotherapy to try and control my uveitis so don't have to use steroids, well not as much.
Career: Former banker now on long term disability
Personal: I became sick at 25 with MS like symptoms then developed uveitis a few years later. It is a never ending battle to prevent myself from going blind, well I am legally blind, but I have been worse.
I enjoy talking books, surfing the net, corresponding with friends I have made on the uveits web site, playing with my German Shephard, and just trying to live my life best I can while being very sick with a famililiar granulomatous disease of unknown name. My sister has all of the same.
I've been on chemotherapy for over a year and a half, and am hoping to stop soon, if my eyes behave themselves.
Hobbies: HORSES were my main hobby until I became so blind I could not look after them anymore, but still have 2 and a 2 year old racehorse that will be running this summer, I bred all but the Mom who I trained off of the track and rode dressage and jumping and lots of trails in the forests of Vancouver.
Now I hang with my German Shepherd, Beau, and listen to talking books and surf the net.I am married to a very tolerant guy who has been with me through all this, and we like to watch DVD's and just be happy.
Last update: April 6, 2004 |
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Yoomalerina
Residence: Ft Worth, TX
Birth: 1979
Glaucoma Type: Uveitic/Secondary
Age diagnosed: 23
Glaucoma History: I
was diagnosed with HLA-B27 + related iritis at age 13 which
is connected to JRA, but I didn't have arthritis symptoms
until years later. The uveitis become chronic and more difficult
to control from age 20 onwards. After a decade or so of
chronic topical corticosteroids and inflammation, I developed
glaucoma in my right eye. I've lost about 40% of my peripheral
vision. In 2005 I had a trabeculectomy and an Ahmed shunt.
Trab failed in four months due to scarring and the Ahmed
'failed' in Fall 2009 (IOP is back up). We are currently
looking at CPC, diode laser cycloablation, but I am very
hesitant because of the uveitis and I'm not sure what to
do next. My pressures are between 17-26, but the Dr. wants
them lower because of nerve damage. I currently taking two
different systemic immunosuppressive drugs (Neoral and methotrexate),
oral Diamox, Combigan, Trusopt, and Vexol. I am very worried
about losing my sight from either glaucoma or uveitis, (as
well as my health on all these drugs long-term), but I am
hanging in there.come chronic and more difficult to control
from age 20 onwards. After a decade or so of chronic topical
corticosteroids and inflammation, I developed glaucoma in
my right eye. I've lost about 40% of my peripheral vision.
I have had two eye surgeries, a trabeculectomy and an ahmed
shunt in 2005. Both have now failed (four good years with
the shunt). We are currently looking at CPC or diode laser
cycloablation, but I am very hesitant because of my uveitis.
My pressures are between 17-26, but the Dr. wants them lower.
I am also currently taking two different systemic immunosuppressive
drugs as well as oral Diamox. I am very worried about losing
my sight from either glaucoma or uveitis, but am hanging
in there. This is me reaching out.
Personal: I am a college instructor and
working on my M.A. in English. Married to a wonderful and
supportive man.
Hobbies:
Reading, music, film, writing, art, photography,
hiking.
Last Update: June 8, 2010 |
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Traumatic glaucoma
Bill
Born: September, 1960
Residence: Howell, NJ
Glaucoma Type: Secondary
Age diagnosed: 44
Glaucoma History: Diagnosed in Feburary
of 05 with secondary glaucoma left eye. This was due to
a penetrating eye injury in 04.Just had a trabeculectomy
6-23-05. Had hypotony post-op, had revised trab surgery 8-04-05. Postop IOP was 24. 8-12-05
visit IOP at 27. Hopefully IOP stabilizes.
Career: Diesel Mechanic
Personal: Live in Central Jersey all my
life. Been a mechanic 25 yrs. Single with one son. He is
18. We enjoy motocross racing together.
Hobbies: Racing, fishing,
boating, biking riding, other extreme sports, and the list
can go on. Enjoying life, even with this glaucoma setback.
Last update: July 27, 2005 |
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Doobie
Born: August 1972
Residence: Canada
Glaucoma Type: Traumatic open-angle
Age diagnosed: 31
Career: Assistant
Complex Manager
Glaucoma History: I had a sudden loss
of vision one and a half years ago. Have lost 95% of my
vision in my left eye. My glaucoma specialist says I have
open angle glaucoma and traumatic glaucoma due to an injury
to my eye a long time ago (although I don't remember any
accidents). But there is significant scarring which gives
him the evidence that something happened.
Hobbies: poetry; music; computers; digital
photography
Personal: I am 33
years old and still trying to get used to being pretty much
blind in my left eye. So far so good and cross my fingers
my right eye is unaffected.
Last update: April 29, 2005 |
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Eduardo
Born: January 1933
Residence: Ciudad Obregon, Mexico
Glaucoma Type: Secondary by trauma - left / suspect - right
Age diagnosed: 67
Glaucoma History: Cataract surgery; corneal transplant surgery; fuchīs distrophy, all in my both eyes. Suspect glaucoma in right eye. Trauma to my left eye in August 2000, air bag injury rupture globe os, 5 months after corneal transplant.
Career: Attorney at law & professor
Personal: I was born in the state of Sonora, Mexico; January, 1933. Married with four sons and seven grand sons. Attorney at law, professor commercial law at Universidad La Salle. Former president of the local university; also former mayor of my city and lieutenent governor of the state.
Hobbies: Golf, walking, reading, music
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Jennifer
Born: February 1973
Residence: Wyoming County, PA
Glaucoma
Type: Traumatic
Age diagnosed: 11
Glaucoma
History: At age 11 I was told I had glaucoma after surgery
to my right eye. I have taken about all the eye drops there are, started
with timoptic and pilocarpine. I know that I have inflamation in the eye.
I take timoptic xe, alphagan, xalatan, and lotemax 6 times a day.
September 2001, I am facing surgery again (very near future) and I'm
nervous. I have alot of scar tissue from previous surgeries (i.e. eye
repair and cataract removal), but I realize taking all these drops are not
being effective, pressures have been ranging between 38-50. I suffer from
awful headaces and eye pain. My right eye has becoome lazy and double
vision is occuring. Visual accuity - OD:FC // OS:20/20
Career: Optician
Personal: I am
married with three children. I work for a local optomotrist. I have been
seeing a doctor at Robert Packer. I have also had the pleasure of meeting
Dr L. Jay Katz, I have alot of faith in Dr Katz. |
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Kaye
Born: April 1954
Residence: Canada
Glaucoma Type: Post traumatic glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 7
Glaucoma History: Hit in left eye, several surgeries.
Career: Pharmaceutical
Personal: Born in guyana, lived in Toronto for the last twenty years.
Hobbies: Home decorating, singing.
Last update: February 8, 2005 |
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Kimberly (Mother)
Born: January 1991
Residence: Corbett, Oregon
Glaucoma Type: Traumatic open-angle
Age diagnosed: 12
Glaucoma History: Had soccer ball kicked to left eye from a short distance. 36 hours later, no central vision. Had surgery to repair hole in macula and retinal tears. On Jan.6, 2003 had silicone oil removed - IOP started creeping up. By March 2003, it was 45.
Current medications are Azopt, betoptic S, alphagan and xalatan.
Doctor has ruled out surgery for awhile. Frequent head aches.
Hobbies: Computers. I plan on attending Full Sail University in Florida. I would like to design computer games.
I love animals, especially cats and I want my mom to get me a golden retriever puppy.
Last update: May 27, 2003 |
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Majelyne
Born: 1946
Residence: Holland
Glaucoma Type: Post-traumatic glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 30
Glaucoma History: Eye is damaged, but still sensitive to light. Tried everything, surgery, laser, eyedrops. At moment situation is critical; very painful. She tried marihuana, it helps, but too many side-effects. Desperately looking for THC in form of eyedrops.
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Refined
Born: December 1951
ICQ Number: hmost52 @ yahoo.com
Residence: Brooklyn NY
Glaucoma Type: Angle recession (Traumatic)
Age diagnosed: 28
Glaucoma History: I have been told I have angle-recession glaucoma in my right eye with some elevation in pressure but no vision loss. I have always found this puzzling as I never had any trauma to the eye. One Dr., who did not examine me suggested it might actually be a congenital defect. This makes more sense to me. Any one else have a similar situation?
Career: Government Auditor
Personal: Currently single and living in NYC after having lived in Wash. DC area for 15 years. I was raised in Phila. PA and then we moved just outside city near Cheltenham.
Hobbies: I read a lot especially medical articles on a variety of subjects including Glaucoma. Also like travel and have been to Europe, South America and Australia, and most ststes in US and some provinces of Canada
Last update: October 8, 2004 |
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SteveBC aka Moderator SteveBC
Born:
March 1954
Residence:
Vancouver BC Canada
Glaucoma Type: Traumatic glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 45
Glaucoma History:
Traumatic glaucoma in my right eye only due to injury to the eye when I was 18 years old. Glaucoma diagnosed in December 1999. Visual field tests show minimal, but some, visual field loss, and glaucoma specialist identifies some optic nerve damage. Medication is .25% timolol once a day. Glaucoma has been stable for three years as of Feb., 2003. Thanks to Dr. Wilson and the others at Wills Eye Hospital who give so generously of their time and knowledge.
Personal: Married to the most wonderful
woman in the world. No children.
Career: "Teaching people how to be happy." I am supremely blessed, in general, but also to be able to work at the thing that is my passion in life, and which brings so much fulfillment to me and others.
Hobbies: Reading, music (play guitar and wife is a violin /fiddle teacher), creating mosaics, computers, cycling, swimming, and other west coast outdoor stuff. Love living in the warmest part of Canada even if it does rain a lot. For rhododendrons, spring flowers, and cherry blossoms out by March 21, I can take a little rain. :)
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Vickie
Born: April 1951
Residence: Sunrise Beach, MO
Glaucoma Type: Artificial right eye
Age diagnosed: 14
Glaucoma History: I was injury at age seven by a BB Gun in my right eye--had many eye surgeries and the eye removed at age 14. An implant was inserted under the tissue/muscles in my eye socket and an artificial eye was made at that time. I continued to have many headaches and infections in my right eye, but they were periodical and treated by steroids and antibiotics. (and I learned to live with the discomfort) Over the years I have several new discomfort eyes made and refitted over this implant and tissue. I am trying to find out what type of material the implant in my eye socket may have been use for an implant in the spring of 1966 by Dr, Schertz (deceased) in the North Kansas City Hospitl in North Kansas City, MO area.
I would appreciate any informtion anyone may have regarding this. My headache and all of blood test have reflected the possibility any where from cancer, MS, Temporal Arteritis with no solid answers. For about 4-5 years my health has progressive deteriated and I am simply trying to explore any possibilty.
Hobbies: Piano, water sports--but due to unexplained nueropathy, I have not been able to participate in these, but in a very limited way, which has progressively worsened.
Last update: August 15, 2004 |
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Pigmentary glaucoma
Abu
Born: June 1959
Residence: Portugal
Glaucoma Type: Pigmentary glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 30
Glaucoma History: 1989 - diagnosed,
1989 - 2000 drops timolol 0.5% two times/day, both eyes,
2000 - Argon Laser Trabeculoplasty (OD),
2000 - 2001 Bertocil, Xalatan,
2001 - 11.2003 Bertocil, Xalatan, Trusopt,
11.2003 - Argon Laser Trabeculoplasty (OD),
11.2003 - 04.2004 Bertocil, Xalatan, Trusopt, Carbinib,
04.2004 - Trabeculectomy
Career: Invited scientist
Personal webpage: utkin.cjb.net
Hobbies: Jogging, cats, reading
Last update: June 7, 2004 |
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Andy K (CA)
Born: July 1953
Residence: Mira Loma, Ca
Glaucoma Type: Pigmentary
Age diagnosed: 48
Glaucoma History: I had been glaucoma suspect for several years as the pressures in both eyes had been in the mid to high twenties with cupping in both eyes. Finally saw a specialist who made the the determination that I had pigmentary gluacoma. I use Lumigan eye drops.
Career: Accountant
Personal: I am married with two children.
Hobbies: Partner in a thoroughbred race horse. |
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Angela
Born: January 1952
Residence: Trinidad and Toabgo
Glaucoma Type: Pigmentary
Age diagnosed: 51
Glaucoma History: Triggerd off by either chemical or hydrogen peroxide or steroid prescribed in conjuction with antihestimine
Career: Secretary/gardening
Personal: Loving working with plants, I get my energy from them.
Hobbies: Gardening and exercising
Last update: May 15, 2003 |
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Bob
P
Residence: Chicago, IL
Birth: September 1958
Glaucoma Type: Pigmentary Glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 35
Glaucoma History: Diagnosed
15 years ago at 35, but nerve damage and field defects evident
then, so probably had it since 20's. Had ALT in both eyes
shortly after diagnosis, SLT in left eye in spring 2008
and scheduled for right soon. Current drops are Cosopt,
Alphagan and Xalatan. Some more field loss noticed recently.
Hobbies: About to be 50 years old, married,
four kids, work in the finance field.
Personal: Golf (though
not much time to play since kids arrived, and getting harder
to follow the ball), coaching kids' sports and enjoying
the family.
Last Update: September 19, 2008 |
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Charles Y.
Born: September 1937
Residence: Sun City Center, Florida
Glaucoma Type: Pigmentary glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 55
Glaucoma History: Started treatment with Dr. Gray in Canton, OH with drops, then laser surgery. Moved to Stamford, CT and had emergency operations on both eyes. The trab failed in the left eye after one year. Now residing in FL, and had another trab in the left eye. It also failed in one month. Just had a Baerveldt implant. Pressure is 8 and 10 in the right eye. The trab in the right eye is in excellent working order after five years.
Career: Retired Teacher
Hobbies: Running, reading, travel.
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Christine
Born: 1970
Residence: Philadelphia, PA
Glaucoma Type: Pigmentary
Age diagnosed: 29
Glaucoma History: Diagnosed at age 29. Family history (grandfather on my mother's side) of pigmentary glaucoma. Have been on just about all medication on the market over the past few years. Considering SLT surgery because my husband and I are trying to get pregnant and most of the medication will cause harm or complications.
Career: Technology Consultant
Personal: Married - No Children
Last update: October 29, 2003 |
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Dave
Born: January 1943
Residence: Ephrata, PA
Glaucoma Type: Pigmentary dispersion glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 53
Glaucoma History: Diagnosed with beginning pigmentary dispersion glaucoma in both eyes, but only the right is a problem. In 1999, pressure suddenly went up to 30 and I lost some vision. Increased drops and two laser treatments kept pressure in the teens. July, 2002 pressure suddenly went up to 26 -lost more vision. After trabulectomy/cataract operation on Aug 21st, pressure has gone from 26 to 21 with meds to 28 to 6 after a stitch was zapped and from 37 to 2 after second stitch zapped. Currently pressure is 2 and I'm a bit worried.
Career: Hardware Store Owner - temporarily retired
Personal: Married. Live in suburban Ephrata. Managed family hardware business 1975 to 2001. Like Lancaster County, except it's too conservative.
Hobbies: Travel, hiking, music especially classical and jazz. Learning about investing. Sing bass in Lancaster Chamber Singers and in Church choir. Looking things up on the internet. |
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Dave (UK)
Born: March 1963
Residence: UK
Glaucoma Type: Pigmentary glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 37
Glaucoma History: Had trauma to both eyes, straight after trauma
had halos in left eye. I was silly and did not go straight to hospital. Arrived at the hospital about 4 weeks after accident. Was
then diagnosed with pigmentry glaucoma.
Had to have a trab in each eye as IOP's were going up even with drops.
IOP's now around 12 in each eye, and have a little damage to the nerve in my left eye.
Since having glaucoma have had depression. As I find it difficult to cope with the uncertain future.
Career: Toolsetter
Personal: Age 37 married with 2 children. Wife, Tracy, has been very supportive.
Hobbies: Used the love Judo, (can no longer take part
because of the trabs), cycling, reading, films.
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Dstar42 (Deb)
Born: December 1956
Residence: Philadelphia, PA
Glaucoma Type: Pigmentary Glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 27
Glaucoma History: Mother had glaucoma and was blind in one eye due to non-treament of condition. Since my diagnosis I feel as though I have been searching for a good doctor or course of treament. I have vision loss and have had three surguries in each eye. Currently taking Xalatan once a day, I have had just about
every eye drop possible. I seem to have problems tolerating eye drops. Once I find one I can tolerate after awhile it no longer works. I read everything I can get my hands on about glaucoma, at times I feel it consumes me. I am still able to drive but am leary as to how much longer, for now I am very careful. My current IOP is about 27 in each eye. I have recently had to give up one of my most favorite things and that was step aerobics. My dr. felt it was causing spikes in my pressure.
Career: Management Analyst
Personal: I am a newly married, who enjoys life very much. I have 6 children, three are step children and 5 grandchildren.
As you can see I am very busy.
Hobbies: Running, walking and biking.
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fishstick2
Born: July 1976
Residence: Berlgium - Europe
Glaucoma Type: Pigmentary Glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 27
Glaucoma History: 8 months ago the diagnose fell. My left eye pressure was 50 and right 30. I lost my vision for 60% in my left eye. Iīv had in those 8 months treatments with eye drops, laser therapy but because none of those treatments were helping theyīve done a trabulectomy on my left eye. For the moment they are considering to do same for my right eye.
Career: Social Worker
Personal: Enjoy life and donīt let glaucoma take that away from you!!!
Hobbies: I do several sports but iīm also a traveller. see my website (in dutch) but with a lot of pictures!! www.gringotrip.cjb.net
Last update: February 9, 2004 |
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igold
Residence: South Florida
Born: January 1957
Glaucoma Type: Pigmentary glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 37
Last Update: May 8, 2006 |
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Jim AZ
Born: 1947
Residence: Arizona
Glaucoma Type: Pigmentary and open-angle
glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 40
Glaucoma History: Diagnosed with Pigmentary
Dispersion and Open Angle Glaucoma in 1989. Retinal hemorrhage
in 1993. Cataract surgery in right eye in 2001. retinal
detachment in same eye in 2003. Now only 20/ 60 in that
eye with glasses. I had a Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty
in left eye in 2004, but it did not lower my IOP which is
still around 18 to 22. I would like to talk with anyone
who has had a Argon Laser Trabeculoplasty (ALT) and/or a
Trabeculectomy.
Career: Teacher
Personal: I teach college writing and
literature. I used to lead backpacking treks into Havasu
Canyon, a side canyon of the Grand Canyon. I am single and
have no kids.
Hobbies: I enjoy writing short stories
and poetry. I love reading contemporary fiction and poetry.
My favorite writers are Joyce Carol Oates and T.C. Boyle.
My favorite T V shows are Charlie Rose and Gray's Anatomy.
My favorite radio program is LoveLine with Dr. Drew and
Adam Corolla.
Last Update: July 17, 2005 |
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JPrevity
Born: January 1928
Glaucoma
Type: Exfoliation
Age diagnosed: 68
Glaucoma
History: Medicines, 2 lasers, getting ready for surgery
(cutting), also have a cataract in the glaucomatous eye. |
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jtromb01
Born: February 1979
ICQ Number: 152968632
Instant Messenger: spikef21
Residence: Philadelphia suburbs
Glaucoma Type: Pigmentary Glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 17
Glaucoma History: I am a 23 year old female diagnosed with pigmentary dispersion in high school, when a regular eye test showed IOP's of high 30's in each eye. Pressures have spiked to high 60's, but I have yet to notice any serious visual effects, and my visual fields are still near perfect. Until recently (Oct. 2002)I have been terrible about my drops, taking them very rarely. (usually around doctors visits only.) Just recently after reading some of the information provided on this site, I am realizing how high my pressures really are. I'm currently on Betoptic S and Xalatan, and have taken Betagan and Timoptic in the past. I have no family history of glaucoma. I recently have become interested in the possibility of surgery, due to my stuggles with drops, and have scheduled an appointment with Dr. Spaeth for a second opinion, since my doctor seems to just brush off the idea of surgery. I would be very interested to talk to folks in a similar situation, especially with advice on how to convince myself to take those horrible drops when I have no physical signs or evidence of vision loss yet, other than severe cupping and very high pressures.
Career: Chemical Engineer for the US Navy
Personal: I grew up in northern New York state (near Lake Placid), and graduated from Villanova University with my undergrad degree in Chemical Engineering in '01. I am currently attending the same school part-time for my masters in the same field, while working full time on Nuclear Submarine Life Support for the Navy.
Hobbies: I enjoy travelling, tennis, skiing, knitting, reading, movies and many other hobbies |
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Mike
Born: July
1944
Residence: Germany
Glaucoma
Type: Pigmentary glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 44
Glaucoma
History: Right eye: several ALT, trab (June 1995) actual
therapy 3 x Alphagan, 3 x Timosine, 1 x Xalathan, actual IOP 14-16. Left
eye: several ALT, trab (June 1993), needling (August 1993), cataract
surgery (November 1995), trab (December 1999), actual therapy: no meds
ince the last surgery actual IOP 12-13. Vision filed: some greater
damages. Problem: IOP increases up to 26-28 when I'm lying flat, therefore
I'm "sitting" in the bed at night.
Career: sales manager
Hobbies: literature, art, skiing
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Mike
Born: May
Residence: Missouri
Age diagnosed: 40
Glaucoma History: Father / Aunts & Uncles have history of glaucoma.
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Mort (Mort Guffman)
Born: November 1955
Website: www.clampett.com
Residence: Historic Largo, FL
Glaucoma Type: Open-angle pigmentary
Age
diagnosed: 28
Glaucoma History: I was a suspect for a few
years then started treatment with eye drops. I am very nearsighted
and ophthalmologists always mention that my optic nerve is unusual and
hard to see. One doctor thought I had NTG because he thought the
visual field was deteriorating even though my IOP was not very high.
My current doctor does not think I have NTG, and he thinks my field tests
do not show much progression. My IOP stays in the 9-11 range thanks
to Xalatan, Ocupress, Azopt, and a steady diet of microwaved foods and
interesting entrees prepared by the cafeteria.
Career: Computer Guy/Data Janitor
Personal: Single
father, doing the best I can to raise my son Walter, earn a living, and
keep the lawn mowed. Even though it's been off the air for almost 10
years, I think about Twin Peaks all the time.
Hobbies: computers, investing, movies, cars
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NETim
Born: November 1956
Residence: Nebraska
Glaucoma Type: Pigmentary glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 26
Glaucoma History: Diagnose in '83 at age 26. Much damage had already occurred. VF's look like minature maps of Eurasia. Cupped optic nerves too. (No suprises there eh?) Immediately put on Timoptic which worked but didn't bring down the IOP far enough. Tried various other forms of chemical torture commercially known as Diamox and Pilocarpine. These meds brought down the pressure further but damage was still occurring. Besides I couldn't live with the evil Pilocarpine's nasty side effects. So treb's were performed on each eye. The left one in '84 and the right in '85. Fortunately both worked. Since the surgery everything went pretty well except for the last vist on 1/23/02. Left eye VF indicated more damage occurring. Doc put me on Travastan on a trial basis to see if the pressure could be reduced more. Each eye at the time of the exam measured 15. But I guess in my case that's enough to do more damage. For the record, when this disease was originally diagnosed in '83 it was the opinion of serveral doctors that glaucoma was working its insidious influence for many years already. I was in the US Navy for six years, '75 to '81. During that time I had several physicals and no one caught it even though it is plainly obvious by the condition of my retinas that something was dreadfully WRONG! I can still remember the Navy corpsman at my 2 year extension physical examining my eyes and asking me if anyone had ever asked me if I had high blood pressure. Here I was, a rail thin 22 y/o and no one had ever detected high blood pressure. The Navy doc who examined me afterwards missed it too. He didn't even ask me if I had high blood pressure. The reason for this long rant about the US Navy medical team is for those who champion socialized medicine. What are you crazy or something? We need quality healthcare, not FREE healthcare!!!
Career: Field service on medical imaging equipment, MRI's
Hobbies: I like to fish, especially for Muskies. I shoot trap. (You know, the little orange clay pigeons.) I can still see well enough to hit more than I miss, although the truth is, when I miss it's a matter of simply not concentrating enough. My other passion is my Cummins powered Dodge pickup. A REAL man's machine. :) Makes noise, runs on diesel and can pull a house. What more could a guy ask for? I do a little writing when the mood is upon me as well. Got to have something to write about. Maybe a startling expose of the US Navy's "elite" medical corps? The Post Office's business model? :)
Personal: Present age 45 (Jan 2002). Married 16 years with no kids. Have two extremely stupid cats though, Buffy and Hal. Buffy is a brown mackeral Maine Coon. She is really pretty. Hal is our "walk on" cat. He simply crashes at our place between nights out with the boys. (Don't worry, he's fixed.) Hal is an American Longhair according to the vet. Served in the US Navy as an Electronics Tech from 1975 to 1981. Plankowner on the USS Oldendorf, DD972.
Been working as a Field service engineer since 1985. Maintain cat scanners, MRI's and nuclear cameras. And of course, they are networkable, so I get to play with networked computers. (The real fun.) Got laid off from the job in '98 and worked for the USPS as an Electronics Tech for them until July of 2000 when I rehired back into my original job. I was glad to get out of the shuffling lethargy most people call the "Post Office." Amatuer management, civil service and the AFL/CIO do not combine to create the world's most efficient organization. (Oh, I could tell you stories!) Let's just that any day you get mail delivered, you can safely consider it a minor miracle. :)
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PennyT
Residence: Florida
Glaucoma
Type: Open angle glaucoma - pigmentary glaucoma
Age
diagnosed: 29
Glaucoma History: I have had glaucoma
for 20 years and now, after surgery, have good vision and am on no
medication. It has been a long journey for me, but the outcome is
wonderful. I'm not unrealistic to think that I'll never need any other
meds or procedures in the future, but I am confident that should that day
arrive, there will be a competent doctor to help me. I was lucky to have
been diagnosed early before any harm was done. The retinal specialist said
that had I not been diagnosed when I was, I would be walking with a cane
today. Just goes to show you what a silent predator Glaucoma is! I didn't
have any family members with glaucoma nor did I have any symptoms when I
was diagnosed, but now both my parents have found they have glaucoma. I am
grateful my optometrist was thorough & I always advise my friends
& family to get regular checkups.
Career: Retired from Real Estate
Personal: Female, married with 1 son,
1 step-son and 1 step-daughter.
Hobbies: Volunteer work, hiking,
reading, piano, travel. |
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Ane
Born: November 1957
Residence: Toccoa, Georgia
Glaucoma Type: Open angle - pigmentary
Age diagnosed: 31
Glaucoma History: Paternal grandfather had narrow angle glaucoma so my optometrist watched my pressure closely. Sent me to an opthomologist who ran tests and diagnosed glaucoma. Used various drops & had laser surgery on both eyes twice that failed to lower the pressure. Began seeing a glaucoma specialist. He's had me try several different combination of drops. Currently using Cosopt and Alphagan in right eye twice a day. Also use Xalatin at night. Pressure usually stays low - mid 20's. Visual Field shows more loss of vision in left eye. There has also been some damage to the optic nerve. The specialist now recommends surgery. I trust his opinion. I was scared of the possible side effects. I've never known anyone my age who has had glaucoma and no one at all who has had this type of surgery. I had the trab in June. I couldn't believe how easy the surgery and the recovery went. As of October 2, 2001 my pressure was 7-8 in that eye withour any drops. When my specialist says it's time for surgery on the other eye, I won't be near as apprehensive.
Career: Program Coordinator for teen abstinence program.
Personal: Married to a wonderful man who is very supportive. Both of us are Christians and are trusting in the fact that God is in control.
Hobbies: I love waterfalls and my husband loves to hike - so we compromise and hike to waterfalls. We love to see God's creation.
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Riley
Born: May 1948
Residence: Florida
Glaucoma Type: Pigmentary
Age diagnosed: 41
Glaucoma History: Strong family history of glaucoma. Properly diagnosed but mistreated by Dr. #1. Family dr. sent me to a great eye clinic. Drops tried first in both eyes. Laser in both when drops were ineffective. Trabeculectomy (1996) left eye. Using Cosopt in both eyes. Pressure is 13 in left and 18 in right.
Career: Accounting Manager
Personal: Married, one married daughter (who has a family history on both father's and mother's side).
Hobbies: Heavily involved in Christian activities, railfanning, photography, amateur radio license, film noir fan.
Last update: January 12, 2005 |
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Rose (PA)
Born: December 1948
Residence: Pennsylvania
Glaucoma Type: Pigmentary
Age diagnosed: 56
Glaucoma History: Diagnosed with pigmentary glaucoma at a
routine eye exam. Hemorrhage found on optic nerve and had IOP of 30. Being
treated with drops right now, Lumigan, Alphagan. Don't seem to be lowering
IOP much though. Tried Xalatan and Azopt which didn't help much either.
Am unsure what's next.
Personal: Single parent of grown son and have two grandchildren.
Work full time and am always looking for information on pigmentary glaucoma
because I understand it is rare. Having trouble finding people with that
type, even in chat room.
Hobbies: Reading, movies. Used to exercise more but am limited--can't
jog etc. due to pigment dispersion.
Last Update: June 22, 2007
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Tuv
Born: December 1948
Residence: Spain
Glaucoma Type: Open-angle pigmentary
Age diagnosed: 49
Glaucoma History: Diagnosed in 1999. used Alphagan, Michelan and Xalatan, Xalatan has worked in the left
eye so far. Failed in the right even after
laser treatment. Had trab in the right eye two months ago. Seems to be working but in the last two weeks have been suffering pains in the right eye every night at 20 to 23 hours. Doctor says he will have to remove some stitches. Don't know what'll happen. (June 2002)
Career: Teacher
Personal: Married with three children. The eldest is
ninteen and the youngest six. Studied economics but became teacher when moved to Spain. I am a Cypriot of Turkish Origin.
There are several Glaucoma cases in my family. All are enjoying healthy vision, although with some ophtical nerve damaged after the trabs.
Hobbies: Reading books. Walking along at the seaside.
Want to write books if my eyes allow me.
Play football with my six year old go fishing. Like going to disco and wining and dining with my wife and friends. |
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Ajaccio
Born: February 1974
Residence: Budapest, Hungary
Glaucoma Type: congenital
Age diagnosed: 3 months
Glaucoma History: I was diagnosed with
glaucoma right after I was born. I lost vision on my right
eye. Normal IOP until 20. Operated on cataract at 24. Then
IOP was around 40 for years. Now IOP is normal, but cornea
got swollen 2.5 years ago. Fortunately, my left eye is completely
healthy.
Career: Consultant
Personal: Until 29, glaucoma did not affect
my life negatively at all. I am working as a junior consultant
in Hungary. I am happy to find people whom I can share my
feelings about this disease. If you feel that you need support,
don't hesitate to contact me.
Hobbies: Rowing (kayak),
swimming, keeping fit, reading
Last update: August 29, 2005
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Al
Born: 1970
Born: December 1967
Residence: Calgary, AB, Canada
Age diagnosed: Birth
Glaucoma History: I was born with glaucoma in my left eye and at a very young age I underwent surgery to aleviate the pressure, but the optic nerve was already damaged and so I've never had good vision in my left eye, about 5-10% vision. Really only lights and vague shapes. In my late 20's my pressure started to creep up again and so I was put on Timoptic. I was on Timoptic for about 8 years and my pressure started to creep up, so now I'm on Cosopt, this seems to be doing the trick. My left eye is much larger than my right eye and seems to wander about. This is very unnerving for people with whom I'm talking to. :-)
Career: Communications Systems Engineer
Personal: Born in Dar-Es-Salaam, Tanzania (E. Africa). At a very young age moved to the UK, and then at the age of 13 to Calgary, AB, Canada.
I am married, but with no children yet.
Hobbies: Walking, karate, hangin' out with my wife. |
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AlexW
Born: October 1986
Residence: London, UK
Glaucoma Type: Juvenile
Age diagnosed: 8
Glaucoma History: Well I've suffered with glaucoma since the age of 8 being constantly taken in and out of school for pressure checks and operations and had been recieving constant treatment untill the age of 16 when I had a trabeculectamy and now I'm reciaving no treatment what so ever although still have permanent sight damage.
Career: Student
Hobbies: Mountain biking, Clubbing, Dancing, Weight training, Internet surfing
Last update: December 16, 2004 |
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Amanda
Born: April 1974
Residence: Brisbane, Australia
Glaucoma Type: Congenital
Age diagnosed: Birth
Glaucoma History: Had surgery at the age of 6 months. Lost most of the sight in my left eye. At the age of 14 started using timoptol, which I developed an allergy to. Tried numerous eye drops, but the pressure in my right eye remained elevated. Now am using Xalatan with some success.
Career: Registered Nurse
Personal: Recently spent two years living in London working and travelling, now heading back home.
Hobbies: Music (love live music), art, keeping fit
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Amy
Residence: Philadelphia,
PA
Birthday:1981
Glaucoma Type: Congenital Glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 1
Glaucoma History: I
have unilateral congenital glaucoma in the left eye. The
eye affected by glaucoma is enlarged and eventually went
blind over many years. The other eye is completely normal.
I had a goniotomy as a baby and then had this surgery repeated
years later. I have taken numerous eyedrops to try to control
my IOP.
Personal bio Founded the Congenital Glaucoma
Network (http://congenitalglaucomanetwork.com/)
to facilitate discussion, provide support, and promote awareness
of congenital and childhood glaucoma. I currently work in
higher education.
Last Update: February 16, 2011 |
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bbvest
Born: August 1974
Residence: Oregon
Glaucoma Type: Congenital
Age diagnosed: Birth
Glaucoma History: Have had all surgeries available to help a patient my age. I am legally Blind. Suffer with constant migraines and eye pain and nausea.
Career: Homemaker
Personal: I have had glaucoma since birth.
Hobbies: Growing plants.
Last update: November 29, 2004 |
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Braden
Born: August 1999
Residence: Pennsylvania
Glaucoma Type: Infantile Glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 6 months
Glaucoma History: At six months of age diagnosed with infantile glaucoma. Pediatrician had been treating him for previous six months for clogged tear duct obstructions. IOP was at 35, with severe cupping on the optic nerve. It was suspected at that time that he had already lost his peripheral vision. Two weeks of cosopt and the pressures were low enough and corneas were clear enough to perform surgery. The right eye a gonioscopy was attempted, but failed so a goniotomy was done. One the left eye a trabeculectomy with Mitomycin C was done. Two weeks later, the right eye's pressure was elevated. A trabeculectomy with Mitomycin C was done. Pressures have been stable for over two years now with no medications needed to maintain pressures. In September of 2001 a revision was done to the bleb in the left eye because the eye tissue had worn thin from cold related eye infections. No peripheral vision was lost. Braden suffers from some developmental delays due to the fact the he did not have a good quality of vision until he was almost one year old. He is making incredible improvements though.
Hobbies: Loves anything to do with trains, Elmo, and Erie.
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BrendaAK
Born: October 1963
Residence: Ketchikan, Alaska
Career: Custodian
Glaucoma Type: Open and closed angle
Age diagnosed: 15
Glaucoma History: My younger sister has
glaucoma since a baby. I was tested every year. My IOP went
up when I turned 15. Know at 42 I'm taking three drops and
a pill to keep my IOP at 15. I'm scheduled for Shunt surgery
in Boise, Idaho in May of 2006.
Hobbies: I spend time
with my girls. Like to read, play on the computer and go
for walks. We also are involved with our church.
Personal: I'm single with two girls 10
and 8 years old. We have two dogs. I have been doing custodial
work for 15 years.
Last update: January 16, 2006 |
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Brit
Born: May 1988
Residence: PA
Glaucoma Type: Pediatric glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 7
Glaucoma History: I was first born with
a cataract in my eye and operated on at 13 days old. At age
7 I developed glaucoma. The first operation performed was
unsuccessful and only temporary. The second operation worked
flawlessly in which a tube shunt was placed in my left eye.
Click
here to read more.
Career: Student at the Baldwin school
Personal: My name is Brittany and I am a
student at the Baldwin school. My main interests are math,
history, politics and law. I have loving parents and two brothers;
one older and one younger.
Hobbies: My favorite sport is tennis which
I play on the school team at the varsity level and outside
school all year round. I work part-time at a local apartment
complex where I give tours to interested renters. Like most
teenagers, I enjoy spending time with my friends, listening
to music and watching the OC (of course).
Last update: April 22, 2005 |
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Cammie
Born: 1978
Residence: Texas
Glaucoma Type: Husband - Congenital
Age diagnosed: 1 year
Glaucoma History: My husband was born with Congenital Glaucoma. He has had many many surgeries, but nothing has helped. He lost his right eye at age 14 and lost all of his sight in his left eye at age 27. There is not any family history that we can find. The doctor has told us that there is a 25% chance that our children will have it.
Career: Nurse
Personal: I am a nurse and my husband is disabled. He definately does his share by taking care of the needs at home.
Hobbies: My husband loves Nascar, football, and playing cards. Together we like to take walks and do home improvment projects.
Last update: September 22, 2004 |
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chardy
Residence: TN
Glaucoma Type: Pediatric
ICQ, AIM, Yahoo, or MSM number:
Freakcammie_4
Age diagnosed: 3
Glaucoma History: Arwynn
was born with Congenital Cataracts in both eyes in 2004.
After removal and her first 5 surgeries, she was diagnosed
with Open and Closed Angle Glaucoma. She's had 11 surgeries
in total, including a tube implant in her left eye. Her
optic nerve is healthy, however she does have peripheral
vision loss which confuses me a bit.
Personal: Arwynn is 6 years old, and extremely
smart. She goes to a wonderful public school and is in Kindergarten.
She loves to read, play games, and to be tested. She knows
she is smart :)
Hobbies:
Playing Wii, reading, being with family.
Last Update: January 13, 2011 |
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Corcoran
Born: May 1972
Residence: Minnesota
Glaucoma Type: Congenital glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 6 months
Glaucoma History: Went in for my six month check up, and was sent to Dr. Letson at the U of M the next day and had surgery the day after in both eyes. My vision is 20/15 in my right and 20/400 in my left. Have not had to take any medications since my surgery. I have yearly checkups.
Career: Information systems
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Carla
Born: March 1986
Residence: Allentown, PA
Glaucoma Type: Congenital glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 3 months
Glaucoma History: I am the mom of a 17 year old boy who was born with congenital glaucoma; has had many surgeries-goniotomies, trabeculotomy, trabeculectomy with mitomycin c; doing extremely well-little to no vision loss, sees normally in 1 eye and 20/150 in other eye due to lazy eye and being albino. He has gotten a driver's license, He is happy, doing well in school, and in love. Please let others know who have infants with congenital glaucoma that things will be OK. I remember feeling so depressed when my son was an infant and so worried about what would become of him. Could he survive without me if I wasn't alive anymore? I want to tell you all that it will be OK-My son is such a blessing. Things will be OK. Call/E-Mail me if you need support! Information available from me in chat room.
Hobbies: Loves computer and video games.
Last update: January 19, 2004
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Coops
Residence: Bermuda
Glaucoma Type: Congenital
Age diagnosed: Birth
Glaucoma History: Daughter, diagnosed at day one - flew to
MEEI, ahmed valves in both eyes, pressures in both eyes low teens since
surgery 3 months ago. However daughter has myopia (-10) and astigmatism.
Now sporting glasses.
Last Update: December 3, 2007
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cpeeper
Born: September 1999
Residence:
Glaucoma Type: Congenital glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 9 months
Glaucoma History: We found out our daughter Cassandra had glaucoma at 9 months. Her first surgery was both eyes as the pressure was very high. She has some optic nerve damage mostly in the right eye. Left eye isn't as bad. She had had a total of 3 surgeries on her left and will be having the next one in July 2002 where they will be putting a drainage tube in. She still has a problem when she's outside, she squints alot but would rather be outside than in!
Career: Being a kid!
Personal: She is 2 1/2 and thankfully the glaucoma hasn't slowed her down one bit! She loves being outside and is learning very quickly how to get what she wants!
Hobbies: Bugs, rocks - you name it she collects it!
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Dana
Born: February 2004
Residence: Somers, CT
Glaucoma Type: Congenital infant
Age diagnosed: 2 days old
Glaucoma History: Diagnosed at 2 days of
age with open angle congenital glaucoma. IOP's 40+ in each
eye. Ah-med valves in left eye at 9 days. Right at 23 days.
IOP's have averaged 22 since her birth; fluctuating between
the teens and low 20's. So far Dana has had 10 eye surgeries.
She has had Ah-med revisions and replacements. She has had
2 pupil enlarging surgeries to her L eye. As of this time
her iop's are 25 in each eye with another surgery planned
if the eye drops don't control the pressure. She has not had
a trabectulectomy yet. Myopic but does seem to have good enough
vision so far. Wears glasses. Career toddlerhood. Attends
a structured playgroup 1x a week.
Career: Babyhood
Personal: Second child to mom, first to
Dad. I have an older sister who is 6 years old.
Hobbies: Loves sensory playing. Very observant
and detail oriented. Likes to laugh and play with older sister.
Last update: January 16, 2006 |
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debrac
Residence: Gold Coast
Australia
Glaucoma Type: Congenital
Birthday: September
1958
Age diagnosed: at birth
Glaucoma History:
I was born with glaucoma in the left eye 1958, which was
blind at birth, I have had 3 trabeculectomies and around
23 other procedures. I was diagnosed with right eye glaucoma
aged 15, this has been saved twice by trabeculectomy. I
recently had DNA testing and found that i have both genes
however, so far my children are clear. My Sister, Mother,
and Uncle all had glaucoma after their 30's My philosophy
with this difficult disease, is to 'take control and act
quickly if and when it misbehaves'. It certainly makes one
strong!
Personal bio: Medical Secretary
for 30 years, have a very supportive husband and 2 lovely
children
Hobbies:
Movies, theatre, family
Last Update: September 11, 2011 |
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doublethefun
Born: February 1966
Residence: Syracuse, NY
Glaucoma Type: Congenital glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 4 months
Glaucoma History: My little Christopher (11-22-01) was diagnosed with glaucoma after I noticed his eye became cloudy. He has had goniotomy in the left eye 1x and the right eye x2.
Career: Mommy!!!
Personal: I am a mommy to 7 year old twin boys Alex and Ryan and to our special blessing Christopher. I am married to a wonderful husband and Daddy (Keith). I work from home.
Hobbies: scrapbooking, golfing, reading, swimming |
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Emitra
Born: 1970
ICQ Number: 169966129
Residence: Tennessee
Glaucoma Type: Glaucoma caused by Axenfeld-Reiger
Age diagnosed: 3 months
Glaucoma History: My daughter was born with glaucoma in both eyes. She has had several surgeries and uses alphagan-p, timoptic, azopt and xalatan. She has shunts behind both eyes.
Personal: Emily loves music. She does very well in school. She touches many lives and I feel blessed that she is my child.
Hobbies: Emily enjoys gymnastics. She is a pee-wee cheerleader. She enjoys being outside, playing dress-up, spending time with her grandparents and playing with her baby brother. Emily has also won many pageants. She also loves school!!
November 2002
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Father
Born: April 2003
Residence: California, US
Glaucoma Type: Congenital glaucoma
Age diagnosed: Birth
Glaucoma History: My daughter was diagnosed with Congenital Glaucoma at birth, left eye was hazier and bigger than right. She is now a month old and has already had 360 degree trabeculotomy at 3 weeks. It hass been 2 weeks and we are waiting to see if that helped.
Career: Being a baby.
Last update: May 27, 2003 |
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GHaney
Born: January 1955, Paul - September 1982
Residence: Florida
Glaucoma Type: Congenital
Age diagnosed: 3
Glaucoma History: My son has congenital glaucoma which was not diagnosed until he was three. By that time he was blind in his right eye and had limited to no peripheral vision in his left eye. He underwent three goniotomies which helped for a short time but the pressures always rose again. His doctors at present (August 2002) are treating him with two eyedrops, Xalatan and Alphagan. These appear to be working as his pressures range about 10 - 14. What has been very tough for us is the fact that no health professional caught this earlier. If they had, maybe Paul would have some vision in his right eye. He has compensated very well in spite of this, though. He is an extremely bright child and does well in school. He is also very sweet, our little angel, and people are drawn to him and his engaging personality.
Personal: My son is 10. I am, well, in my 40's.
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Harry
Born: November 1963
Residence: Maryland
Glaucoma
Type: Open-angle, but more likely eye did not develop
Age
diagnosed: 27
Glaucoma History: Diagnosed at age 27,
laser to open drainage with no luck. Been through all meds, reduced visual
fields over the years. Significant loss from February 2001 to July 2001.
Had trab done 7/25/01 and have high hopes from it so far. Right eye is
fine so far, left pressures just could not be controlled. Glaucoma
specialist I see, believes it to be congenital, meaning the eye did not
form correctly at birth.
Career: Retired military |
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Hazel Eyes
Born: November 1970
Residence: Texas
Glaucoma Type: Axenfeld's
Age diagnosed: 25
Glaucoma History: I have had about 10+ surgeries, conventional and laser. All within a 2 year time period, from cataract to replacing lens. I get headaches when using eyedrops and mood changes.
Career: Housewife
Personal: I am now 33 years old w/ children. I just married the man who was with me through this ordeal. I still feel self-concious in certain circumstances. I still have both parents who support me in any/every way possible.
Hobbies: I like to do crafts (wreaths & baskets). I used to do some sewing, but get tired. I enjoy looking at craft catalogs and magazines. Mainly just the pictures, ha!
Last update: March 10, 2004 |
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Laststopforhyper
ICQ, AIM, Yahoo, or MSM number: laststopforhyper
Birth:
February 1987
Glaucoma Type: Juvenile open-angle glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 20
Glaucoma History:
I started noticing some dimness in my right eye, but didn't
think anything of it. I figured I would bring it up at my
optometrist appointment in two months. At the appointment
in May 07, my doctor started crying and told me that I had
glaucoma and not just dimness, but significant vision loss
in my right eye. In October 07 I had a trabeculectomy and
Ex-Press shunt put in my right eye which has worked wonders.
In March 08 I had a laser surgery in my left eye which had
no effect and I am still on many medications in that eye.
Personal: Student,
reading, camping, music
Last Update: October 29, 2008 |
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LL's
mom
Residence: Canada
Birth: August 1956
Glaucoma Type: Axenfeld-Rieger
Age diagnosed: Birth
Glaucoma History: LL
was diagnosed with congenital glaucoma at birth.
During her goniotomy they found some traits that are similar
to Axenfeld.
Hobbies: Being a newborn
Personal: Single mother:
4 children 30, 29, 19,17. I have been a nurse for 25 years
Last Update: August 12, 2008 |
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Jason
Born:
August 1978
Perrsonal
Website: http://www.aimprofiles.com/users.php?user=Jasonaka8&action=profile
AIM: Jason aka 8
Residence: New York City
Glaucoma Type: Primary open-angle glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 16
Glaucoma
History: After losing all vision in my right eye from a complex retinal detachment at the age of 10, I was diagnosed with primary open-angle glaucoma in my left eye shortly after my sixteenth birthday. I was reasonably controlled on a variety of eye drops until August of 2000, when I underwent a trabeculectomy with Mitomycin-C performed by Dr. Courtland Schmidt at Wills Eye Hospital. The surgery was successful; my IOP has been, if anything, a bit too low ever since, resulting in optic nerve swelling and mildly reduced acuity.
Career: Doctoral student
Personal: Born and raised in New York City, I moved with my family to Southern New Jersey in 1992 to be closer to Wills Eye Hospital. After graduating from Richard Stockton College with Distinction for Empirical Research in Psychology, I returned to New York City to continue my education. Fascinated by the biological bases of behavior, I begun work on my Ph.D. in neuropsychology at the City University of New York in early 2002. I'm currently rounding out that study by teaching undergraduate courses in psychology within the City University while conducting basic scientific research, investigating the role of biological growth factors in the development and pathology of vasculature within the brain. For my post-doctoral training, I'd like to turn my attention to the vascular components of ocular disease, most especially glaucoma. My glaucoma -- and the persistent fear of blindness with which it comes -- has faded into the proverbial background in recent years as I pursue the personal, academic and professional goals I've set for myself. Still, I find comfort and enlightenment in speaking with others, especially young people, afflicted by this insidious disease.
Hobbies: I enjoy the calm of the country and the bustle of city streets, fine dining, the theater, computers, and popular culture and entertainment.
Last update: September 28, 2003 |
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Jennifer3
Born: October 1976
Residence: Munfordville, KY
Glaucoma Type: Congenital glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 15 months
Glaucoma History: My daughter was born with glaucoma, but it wasn't discovered until she was a little over a year old. She is 7 now and has had several surgeries (goniotomies) and has been on several different eye drops since the discovery. She presently has little vision in her left eye but you would never know since she can handle herself very well. Her pressures have been dangerously high in her "good" eye for the past few months and she had to have another goniotomy, which wasn't successful. Her doctor is now (June 2002) considering other options. |
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jennyh
Born: November 1950
Residence: Christchurch, New Zealand
Glaucoma Type: Congenital Glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 3 months
Glaucoma History: My mother noticed cloudy eyes. Surgery 2x
in both eyes at 3 months. Lost sight in left eye. Okay until 1967 then
surgery in right eye. Started drops after surgery. Required corneal graft
1996 in right eye due to scarring to cornea. Use Cosopt. Okay to drive.
Personal: Glaucoma has been something I have learnt
to live with, cannot say it has really affected my life. The corneal graft
was a bit of bother, the sutures stayed in for 15 months and I could feel
them every day and sight was very poor - no driving Work full time only
time lost due to my eyes was the corneal graft.
Hobbies: Garden, walking (NZ has the best walking tracks),
swimming, photography. I have 2 cats
Last Update: July 18, 2007
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Joan
Born: January 1964
Residence: Upstate New York
Glaucoma
Type: Axenfeld-Rieger Syndrome
Age diagnosed: 11
Glaucoma
History: Several surgeries on left eye and blind in it now
due to an infection several years ago. Recently had a shunt put in my good
eye and it is functioning OK.
Career: Teacher
Personal: Married with three children
and teach full-time including summer school.
Hobbies: My children, computers,
reading, sewing. |
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Julie (NY)
Born: February 2003
Residence: New York
Glaucoma Type: Congenital
Age diagnosed: 6 weeks
Glaucoma History: My son was born with glaucoma but wasn't diagnosed until he was 6weeks old. I noticed at birth his eyes were cloudy, but was told by the doctor that would clear up. He has had 3 surgeries 1 in the right and 2 in the left. Pressures have remain down for the past 2 months. Doctors are unsure of the amount of damage but are pretty sure he will be able to drive and lead a normal life. My son was also diagnosed with coarcitation of the aorta last week and I was wondering if the two were related in anyway.
Career: Baby
Personal: Currently a mother, previously a x-ray technician.
Last update: June 9, 2003 |
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Kevin B
Born:
January 1987
Residence: Crowsnest Pass, Alberta, Canada
Glaucoma Type: Congenital Glaucoma
Age diagnosed: Birth
Glaucoma History: Very high pressures at birth. Many surgeries in first few months of life. In 2003 a second valve put in my left eye and a first valve put in my right eye. On three different kinds of drops and pressure is under control for now.
Career: Student
Hobbies: Drumming, playing piano and watching movies.
Personal: Graduating from high school in 2005! Hope to go in for music. In a band called "Legally Blinde" where I play drums. I also play piano and saxaphone.
Last Update: June 24, 2004 |
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KellBell
Born: May 1982
Residence: La Jolla, CA
Glaucoma Type: Congenital
Age diagnosed: Birth
Glaucoma History: My mom was diagnosed with glaucoma around 14 years old, so the doctors made sure to test me at birth. Sure enough, I have it too. I had goniotomies at five, six and seven weeks old on both eyes then eyedrops (pilocarpine) up until I was ten. By then my pressures had increased slowly to the mid-thirties in both eyes and I had a trabeculectomy on each. The surgeries were so successful, I haven't been on any medication since and my pressure is around 4 in my right eye (it hasnt gone up since surgery) and 12 in my left. I have 20/20 vision with glasses in my left eye and pretty good vision in the right.
Career: College Student
Personal: I grew up in Long Beach, CA and am now at school at UC San Diego in La Jolla, CA. I'm a Biological Anthropology Pre-med major.
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Kimber
Born: March 1972
Residence: Los Angeles, CA
Glaucoma
Type: Juvenile open-angle-glaucoma
Age
diagnosed: 25
Glaucoma History: I went to the an
optometrist for the first time in my life when I was 25, due to the fact
that I was seeing spots in my vision. I was told I had pressures of 33 and
35 and a cup to disc ratio of .08. I was sent to an opthamologist, and
diagnosed with glaucoma. I have been on every type of medication available
(Azopt, Alphagan, Xalatan, Trusopt, Timoptic, Levobunenol) You name it,
and I have been on it! I had laser surgery 2 years ago, and it did nothing
to lower my pressures. According to my field of vision tests, I have no
vision loss. My pressures remain at 19-21, and my doctor has strongly
suggested a trabeculectomy. I go in for the surgery on October 3, 2001. I
am hoping this next step in my journey with glaucoma eases the pressures,
and lessens the medication routine I am on.
Career: Teacher
Personal: I am
a newlywed of a year and a half. I teach first grade, and we do not have
any children of our own yet. I have strong family support, and good
doctors. My sight is so precious to me, as it is to all of you. As a
glaucoma patient, I treasure my gift of being able to see every single
day!
Hobbies: Long walks, bike riding,
reading, enjoying life! |
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KristaBell
Residence: IL
Glaucoma Type: Congenital?
Glaucoma History: I am very extremely light-sensative. My vision acuity I think is 20/500 in right eye. I read braille. I can only see objects and stuff out of my right eye. Left eye, nothing.
Career: Student
Personal: I am not for sure on what kind of glaucoma I have, but I think it is congenital.
Hobbies: I like hanging out with my best friend, shopping, movies, boys, etc.
Last update: August 18, 2004 |
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Sincy
Residence: Auburn
NY
Birth: December 1977
Glaucoma Type: Congenital
Age diagnosed: 3 months
Glaucoma History: My
son Noah was diagnosed with congenital glaucoma at 3 months
old.He has had several eye surgeries, goniotomy, trabec,
and ahmed valve in right eye. His pressures are normal with
xalatan eye drops.Now he has cataracts that need to be removed.
To look at him you would never know that he has a problem
with his eyes.He is a happy 5 yr old who is very active.
He does however have some learnong delats. I beleive they
are from his vision.
Hobbies: I
am a mom of 2, only the youngest has glaucoma. No family
history of it either. I would love to talk with others who
share the same experience.
Personal:Noah loves
to swim, ride his bike and recently found a love to play
baseball.
Last Update: July 18, 2008 |
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Libby
Born: November 1984
Residence: UK
Glaucoma Type: Sub-acute bilateral aphakic glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 7
Glaucoma History: Inherited bilateral congenital cataracts. Bilateral capsulotomies following by bilateral lensectomies within the first year of life. Squint operations. Diagnosed with bilateral aphakic glaucoma in left eye at age of 7 (although believed to be present since cataract operations). Diagnosed with glaucoma in right eye a couple of years ago (am now 17 yrs old). The glaucoma is sub-acute - scarr tissue blocking trabecular meshwork and iris attached to cornea. 3 diode laser cyclophotocoagulative procedures (3rd diode CPC took place 30th April 2002, my 9th operation in all).
Career: Student
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Limitlesssky
Born: March 1983
ICQ Number: limitlesssky @ yahoo
Residence: India
Glaucoma Type: Congenital
Age diagnosed: 1
Glaucoma History: I have had glaucoma coupled with some other problems since birth. I have had three trabs so far. one in the right and two in the left. The trab in the right failed and I have hypotony and cataract (added to the other ailments from before) in the right eye since 1997. I have a successful cornea transplant in the left (touchwood?) :)
Career: Student
Personal: Am 20 and undecided about what I am going to do in my life :)
Hobbies: Reading, Music, talking, knowing about
dfferent cultures and coutries, trying new stuff on the computer
Last update: September 24, 2003 |
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LindyMissy
Residence: West Virginia, USA
ICQ, AIM, Yahoo, or MSM number: Melissa1GHQ
Birth: March 1980
Glaucoma Type: Juvenile
Age diagnosed: 9
Glaucoma History: I've
had four trebectolectomies,
three on the left eye, and once on my right eye.
My left eye is totally stable, and has been since I was 11.
My right eye used to be "the good one" and now I have had so much vision loss
in the last three months, I'm very worried.
I will have to have surgery again on it in the next month or so,
and I'm worried about what the future holds for me.
Hobbies: Dancing, art, reading, learning, movies
Personal: I have had health problems since I was born, and now it's like all of my conditions take turns flaring up so that I feel miserable every day, but don't have to deal with too many things at once. I'm happily remarried, have a dog, and love to dance (lindyhop and ballroom). I am a professional graphic designer, and visual art has become a huge part of my life. I'm worried about what I will do if my vision gets any worse.
Last Update: April 9, 2008
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LouD
Born: August 1945
Residence: Central Valley, NY
Glaucoma Type: Congenital Cupping
Age diagnosed: 45
Glaucoma History: My doctor has informed me that my elevated pressures are the result of irregular optic nerve formation. He states that I do not have glaucoma, I have passed all visual fields for the past 10 years and I am not on medication because the pressures are only slightly different with the meds and without. My pressure is hovering around 20-21 in each eye. On the form used to classify my condition he has checked off "glaucomatous atrophy of the optic nerve."
Career: College Admnistrator
Last update: January 20, 2007 |
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Lydia
Born: October 1969
Residence: New Jersey
Glaucoma
Type: Congenital Glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 1
Glaucoma
History: Had surgery at 18 months, did not need any drops
until I turned 30 when suddenly my pressure went up to the low 20 it was
always in the mid teens before. Now I take timpotic xe and xalatan and
pressures are down to 11 in both eyes.
Career: Sales
Personal: I
was born and raised in Germany but now live in the US. I have no children.
Hobbies: Sports, my dog and cat
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Lynbird
Born: May 1957
Residence: Ellensburg, Washington
Glaucoma Type: Congenital normal-tension glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 42
Glaucoma History: Began a whirlwind of doctor hopping starting in my 20's with various symptons. Each effort was dealt with a pair of glasses and because my pressure was never high, they said no glaucoma, even though my field vision tests were questionable and cupping was evident.
I found a specialist in this field who need in depth studies on me, and proved to me that the cupping and nerve damage was severe. I was told this morning that the nerves in my eyes were weakened and damaged to the point where they can't sustain any further damage without losing my sight.
I am frightened and angry at the same time.
The vision no one could correct by glasses is due to this and cannot be restored.
I was put on the newer drops named travatan, working well with minimal side effects at the present. I still don't know if it is to late for me. A voice of hope is what I think I need.
Career: Medical Assitant/Lab Tech
Personal: History of a long list of illness and surgeries starting very young. Grew up in an good home with both parents and two brothers. My Dad too has cupping and was diagnosed with glaucoma as well, but under no drops because of his heart..like mine. Married had two children who are grown. My son is married with two children, a boy and a girl. My daughter is married with one infant girl. I am a young grandma. We are very close; however do not live in the same vicinity.
Worked in electronics for 10 years and nursing for 4 years. I have been unemployed because of my dimming sight and recent heart mishap which was due to an unforeseeable mistake made during a minor procedure which turned life threatening.
I am at a crossroads. My husband is a computer technician and we live in a beautiful valley at the foothills of the cascades. Small town. We need to move now, and I am at a loss as to what I can do or can't do. I need to help out with the finances but I don't know how to help. All in all though. I am strong, easygoing and love life, just stuck at the moment.
Hobbies: I love animals, we own a dog named Chakotay, very bright and lovable. Horses are my passion. Sea life...especially dolphins and sharks facinate me. Photography and writing are joys along with many outdoor features. I play the piano & sing. My husband plays electric guitar so music is a big part of what is important in my life. It has gotten me through some very tough times.
Right now I still love all those things but my life seems to be on hold for the past year and have terrible cabin fever.
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Lylyan
Residence: Slovakia
Birth: 1984
Glaucoma Type: Rieger's syndrome
Age diagnosed: 5
Glaucoma History: When
I had many surgeries as a baby on my left eye with the diagnose Rieger's syndrome, not remembering them. I am practically blind on it, beeing able to see some light and movements. I stopped taking eyedrops after the last one, but after 6 years my presseure went high again.
Hobbies: Photography, music, biology
Personal: Now planning being a mother.
Last Update: December 30, 2008
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Maria
Glaucoma
Type: 2 children born with congenital glaucoma
Age
diagnosed: Birth
Glaucoma History: Both sons have had
several glaucoma surgeries. The oldest one still no luck controlling it.
The youngest, seems to be looking better.
Career: At home mother trying to start
own business.
Personal: No history of glaucoma on
either side of family. Doctors still confused about cause.
Hobbies: Horses, and anything that
include my children. |
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marycolasurdo
Born: March 1993
Residence: Jersey Shore
Glaucoma Type: Pediatric, open angle glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 3
Glaucoma History: Mark was born with dislocated lenses which made him very near sighted. He was also born with bilaterral ptysosis(drooping of eye lids). Mark's pressure were not treated till he became very symptomatic this past year. He has lost most of the vision in his left eye. He has .9 cupping in this eye and vision loss 20/800 corrected. Has had 4 surgeries. Three to correct the eyelids. The 4th to put a Baervelt shunt in the left eye to lower the pressures. He has always been under an opthmalogist care. Wish that the glaucoma was properly diagnosed and treated early before the vision loss. Understand that his ptysosis also complicated the matter. Takes Azopt and Timoptic in the right eye. Mark has also been diagnosed with Marfan's Syndrome.
Career: Student
Personal: Mark is a triplet and a very bright young boy. He has 3 other brothers. He was the lowest birth weight of the tripets born prematurely. His vision is poor, but his vision for life is right on.
Hobbies: He loves to draw and never misses a detail. He plays the Clarinet and loves dogs. He likes to play video games and all the other things that 10 year old boys like to do. He is on a baseball and roller hockey team with his Triplet Brothers.
Last update: November 28, 2003 |
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mnmnew1
Born: December 1978 (October 2003)
Residence: Illinois
Glaucoma Type:son--aphakic glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 6 mos
Glaucoma History: Bilateral congenitl cataracts
removed at 4 and 6 weeks. Diagnosed with glaucoma at 6 mos.
Is now almost three and is looking at Baerveldt implant surgery.
Pressure is still unstable despite max medication therapy
and has had 3 trabeculectomy and 2 cycloablasion treatments.
Anyone familiar with this implant or any other parents in
the same situation wish to share your experiences?
Career: Nanny
Personal: Mommy and wife of post-congenital cataract
patients. Very proactive in learning as much as I can about
these diseases and their treatments.
Hobbies: Scrapbooking, children's liturature
Last update: July 6, 2006 |
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MrsBunder
(Lucille)
Born: March 1963
Residence: Peabody, MA
Age
diagnosed: Birth
Glaucoma History: I had many surgeries
at birth (too young to remember what types, etc.). I had laser 10
yrs ago, which kept the pressure down. This year, I've had 3 laser
diodes, I'm hoping this 3rd one will do the trick. I currently take
Cosopt, Alphagan and Xalatan in my right eye. My left eye is
completely healthy.
Career: Sales
Personal: Married, no children
Hobbies: I
enjoy reading, shopping, singing, dancing, exercise, travel. |
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Moi (Moira) and
Beth
Born:
March 1986
Residence: Canada
Age
diagnosed: 14
Glaucoma History: diagnosed August 21, 2000
at age 14
Career:
Student
Personal: This is Moira, Beth's
mother. Beth had bilateral congenital cateracts at birth, with
surgeries at 4 months and corrective contact lenses that she wears now. We
are all rather shell-shocked at this additional eye news. Any
support and info would be appreciated.
Hobbies: Beth enjoys horse back
riding, talking on the phone, and shopping. |
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Mother
Born: December 1973
Residence: Turkey
Glaucoma Type: Congenital glaucoma
Age diagnosed: Birth
Glaucoma History: My son has a congenital glaucoma and had 3 surgeries -6 days old, 45 days old and 8.5 months old. Had 45 IOP in the right eye and 40 IOP in the left eye. Currently, the right eye has IOP of 27 and the left eye has an IOP of 19. Ahmed valve implemented in the right eye March 2002. We do not know the vision loss yet and the damage caused to the nerves.
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MPrincess
Born: June 1984
Residence: Ohio
Glaucoma Type: Congenital
Age diagnosed: ?
Glaucoma History: I was diagnosed with anarida and hence I also have nystagmus and strabismus as well. I don't really remember when I was diagnosed with glaucoma. I have had it ever since I can remember.
I have undergone 2 surgeries, one in each eye, implanting shunts to control the glaucoma.
I am in the process of waiting for an iris implant/cataract surgery of which is not FDA approved yet and I am very nervous.
I also will one day be a candidate for a stem cell transplant because I have what is now as stem cell degeneration.
Career: Student
Personal: I am 20 years old and still kicking. I feel like I'm a hundred when it comes to my eyes but I'm here and living life every day with no regrets. I'm a third year student majoring in secondary education witha a concentration in mathematics. I have a little sister who is 18 and not so little any more and two very supportive parents. My whole goal in life is to get married and have two or three children. I've got all the love in the world to give, just waiting for the right person to come along to share it with. My life just wouldn't be complete without my dream coming true.
Hobbies: Swimming is my heaven. I've swam competitively since I was three and technically I'm retired because I got too old, but I guess 16 years was a good lengthy career.
I also love dancing, skating, running, reading, skiing, and pretty much everything else in life.
I love all my friends and my family and anyone who opens a door for me because when you're a college there are way too many doors to open haha.
Last update: November 6, 2004 |
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Nemie
Born: December 1960
Residence: Metro Atlanta
Glaucoma Type: Congenital (severe)
Age diagnosed: Birth
Glaucoma History: Had 10 operations before age of 2. Some sight in right eye, blind in left. Controlled with meds (multiple meds for 30 yrs). Then age 32, the pressure went crazy, lost some sight,had Trabs surgery, which saved sight I had left and brought the presure down and allowed me off the meds. That was 12 yrs ago and currently still under control with no meds. Life has been hard over past 12 yrs because I had to give up driving, and lights bother me bad. It is sometimes hard to deal with, especially when people in general have no clue of what it is like.
Career: Management
Personal: Divorced, no kids but I have 2 cats I adore.
I am a simple person, a homebody, a private person. I am 43. I am looking for friends who understand my situation.
Hobbies: Music, Travel, History, Historical sites
Last update: October 10, 2004 |
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Ne-Ne
Born: May 1976
Residence: Philadelphia, PA
Glaucoma Type: Juvenile/ acute glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 18
Glaucoma History: I was diagnosed with glaucoma at the age of 18 and I have been on Xalatan eyedrops that have reduced and is keeping the pressure steady in my eyes. I praise God that He directed me to the right opthalmologist who took the time to thoroughly look into my eyes and noticed that something was not right.
Career: Physician assistant
Hobbies: Enjoy spending time in fellowship with friends and fanily. Love animals!
Last update: October 2, 2004 |
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Nicholas' Mom
Residence: West
Tennessee
Born: 2008
ICQ, AIM, Yahoo, or MSM number: CMLegions
Glaucoma Type: Axenfeld
Age diagnosed: 4 months
Glaucoma History: I
am looking for someone who can explain to me (in English - not doctor
talk) what Axenfeld Reiger Anamoly is and what it will do to my 8 month
old baby. He was diagnosed four months ago.
Hobbies: Loving on his Mommy : )
Last Update: October 3, 2008
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Nora's
Mom
Born: February 2007
Residence: Reno, Nevada
Glaucoma Type: Congenital
Age diagnosed: 4 months
Glaucoma History: Nora's right eye began tearing
and being very light sensitive at about 3 months of age.
At her 4 month well visit the pediatrician referred us to
a pediatric opthomologist who in turn referred us to a pediatric
glaucoma specialist in Sacramento. Nora's IOP was around
20 in both eyes in June. It remained at 20 after medication
so a goniotomy was performed in her right eye. Two days
later both eyes still appeared hazy so Cosopt, Zalatan,
and Diomox were administered daily. On 08/08 her IOP was
at around 30 in both eyes without meds so a trabeculotomy
was performed in both eyes as well as stage 1 trabeculectomy's
in both eyes. Two weeks later, without meds her eyes have
become very light sensitive again and a bit hazy. The drainage
system will likely be 'turned on' in early September and
she will probably start the meds again in the next few days.
So far it appears that there has been very little damage
to the optic nerve and her vision should be somewhat correctable.
I will update her progress soon. She is a very happy, beautiful,
and loving little girl and we hope to have the worst behind
us soon!
Last Update: August 26, 2007 |
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October
Born: October 1976
ICQ
Number: 109752597
Residence: Indonesia
Age
diagnosed: 14
Glaucoma History: I was 14 years old
when the doctor found out that I have glaucoma. By that time, the function
of my left eye's nerve was only about 5% left. It was obviously a
shockening diagnoses, and proved glaucoma as a sneak thief of vision,
because before it was found out, I did not feel any symptoms at all. At
that time I only thought that I needed to wear glasses because I could not
see things clearly from a distance. Soon after the diagnosed, I went for a
surgery, before the surgery the IOP of my left eye was 50 mmHg, while the
right eye was 28 mmHg. The doctor decided to have surgery on both eyes.
Unfortunately, the surgery for the left eye was did not succeed, so it is
now totally blind. Right now, I use drops for my right eye, which it's IOP
is usually between 15-22 mmHG. The doctor said that he is prefer to have
another surgery on my right eye, because he is afraid if the IOP increased
more than the normal range. I do believe that there is always cure for
every illness, I have been using eyedrops for years, I know it can not
cure my illness, but it can prevent the damage of the nerve systems. I
usually used two kind of eyedrops, Betopic and Trusopt. But about six
months ago, the doctor found out that my IOP increased up to 31 mmHg.
After first using it, the IOP decreased up to 15 mmHg. He then prescribed
Xalatan, so since that time I use three eyedrops from time to time. After
first using Xalatan, the IOP decreased up to 15 mmHg. But as I said, the
IOP is not always that low, so I must check up to the doctor every month
to see how my IOP level is. I only hope that someday, the medical
technology can find some other ways to cure this illness. I really hope
so. May God bless us all who have concern about glaucoma. Best regards.
Career: Finance staff |
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oliviaarca
Residence: Auckland
Birth: Spetember 1992
Glaucoma Type: Juvenile Open Angle
Age diagnosed: 17
Glaucoma History: Paternal
grandmother had become blind from glaucoma and paternal
aunt developed glaucoma at the age of 50. Had 1 trabeculectomy
in the left eye. Needed 4 revisions oce the right eye was
operated. Had my first trab in the right eye in april developed
a corneo-limbal perforation [surgical error] and had 3 repairs
for leaks and finally the bleb failed and another trabeculectomy
was done in a different corner of the eye (superior limbus/fornix
based trab flap) pressures at diagnosis was 62mmHfg with
80% field loss in my left eye and cdr of 0.95 and right
eye had was 23. deep and quiet anterir chamber and cdr of
0.75. Currently the cdr in the left eye is 0.8 and iop at
12-15mmHg and right eye is between 9-11 vision is decetn
and currely 6/9+/-1 and vague hand movements in the left
eye. At diagnosis the visual acuity in the right eye was
6/6. Recently found that I was developing a nuclear and
posterior subcapsular cataract in my left and right eye
respecctively.
Personal: I am currently a high school
student in my final year of high school. endeavour to study
biomedical science and get into glaucoma research or do
optometry or ophthalmic nursing and specialise in glauocma.
Hobbies:
Read journal articles on glaucoma, watch you tube
clips of glaucoma surgeries,watch television, swimming,
listen to religous music and study biology!!!
Last Update: November 13, 2010 |
|
Shoy
Residence: St. Vincent - West Indies
Glaucoma Type: Congenital
Age diagnosed: 2 months old
Glaucoma History: Gave birth to twin boys and for one boy, noticed a bluish - hue to both eyes. Four surgeries later the IOP's are under control, meds in right eye only. |
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Smashley
Residence: Wisconsin
Birth: June 1995
Glaucoma Type: Secondary glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 8 weeks
Glaucoma History: Congenital
cataracts; surgeries at 8 and 12 weeks. Also, diagnosed w/
PHPV; needed another surgery to correct that. Wear corrective
lenes either glasses or contacts. Taking Xalatan, Alphaga
and Cosospt to control pressure. Was diagnosed w/ a detached
retina on 10/8/09. Had surgery to repair on 10/9/09. Now the
eye pressure in the right eye has sky rocketed...will be seeing
a Glaucoma specialist tomorrow.
Hobbies: Volleyball, Soccer, Gymnastics,
Snowmobiling, 4 wheeling and anything else that is fun and
exciting!
Last Update: October 28, 2009 |
|
songbird123
Residence: MA
Birth: November 1982
AIM: j2s2l37
Glaucoma Type: congenital glaucoma
Age diagnosed: Birth
Glaucoma History:
Personal:
I
am a recent
college graduate from a local community college. I obtained
my associates in human services. I hope to be a counselor/advocate
for children and their families. in my spare time, I love
to surf the net, make youtube videos, sing and listen and
write music. aside from glaucoma I also have scoliosis but
I don't let either of these things slow me down.
Hobbies:
sing, write music, watch tv/movies, surf the net,
hang with friends, etc.
Last Update: February, 2010
|
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Sunshine Selena
Born: September 2001
Age diagnosed: 7 months
Glaucoma History: May 2002 we found out my daughter has glaucoma and she is 7 months old.
|
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Taxi
Born: July 1967
Residence: Manchester England
Glaucoma Type: Congenical Glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 6 months old
Glaucoma History: Numerus Operations in my childhood,
controled for 10 yrs, with medication. Had my first Trabeculectomy
at 30yrs, which lasted for 7yrs, then back on medication.
Had needleing to try to re-open, failed. Had laser to try
to re-open, failed. Just had 2nd Trabeculectomy, still struggling
to control the pressures at the moment.
Personal: Apart from my Glaucoma I have
never been Ill. I am healthy, fit and lead a normal working
life as a Taxi Driver (My wife thinks I am a workaholic)
Hobbies: Watching sports
Last Update: October 17, 2007 |
|
Victoria
/ Sweden
Born: 1975
Residence: Stockholm, Sweden
Glaucoma Type: Pediatric
Age diagnosed: 9
Glaucoma History: I have had one operation
when I was 15 that failed and afterwaeds I lost almost all
sight on my right eye. I have tried laser with short term
results. I am medication with Alpdhagan and Cosopt. I also
take Diamox which seems to be the only thing that really
works for me. I really want to have children so taking all
the medication is worrying me.
Personal: I live with my husband and have an
active life. We like to travel a lot!
Hobbies: Music, reading, art and to travel!
Career: Financial advisor
Last update: May 10, 2007 |
|
vivi
Born: 1969
Residence: Taiwan
Glaucoma Type: Congenital glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 2 months
Career: Finance
|
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wise2u
Born: October 2001
Residence: Virginia
Glaucoma Type: Congenital
Age diagnosed: 7 months
Glaucoma History: My son was recently diagnosed with congenital glaucoma. He had a goniotomoy on both eyes in 5/02 and is scheduled for another surgery in 6/02 (possibly putting a shunt in at that time).
Personal: Also born with Down Syndrome and ASD.
|
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ageswifekae
Born: March 1977
Residence: Banning, CA
Glaucoma Type: Glaucoma suspect elevated IOP
Age diagnosed: 23
Glaucoma History: I am not sure if there is any glaucoma in my family I can remember as a small child getting my pressure tested often but the pressure didn't become dangerous until I reached my twenties when I was twenty three my pressure was 21 in both eyes up until a year ago then it climbed to 26 then within one year it shot up to 31 in each eye now I just stared to use timolol eye drops, do not know if they are working yet.
Career: Retail management
Personal: I am 27 years old, married with no children
but hope to have some soon. I have 3 cats and 2 dogs.
Hobbies: I enjoy playing with my animals, tending to my garden, playing video games, watching movies and of course spending time with my wonderful supportive husband.
Last update: November 13, 2004 |
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AnnieMac
Born: June 1948
Residence: Home in Western Australia
Glaucoma Type: Not sure
Age diagnosed: 56
Glaucoma History: Father and his brother
went blind with glaucoma. High pressure readings between
24-27 detected five years ago, glaucoma diagnosed this year.
Brother (57) also recently diagnosed. Being treated with
nightly drops of Xalatan. Eyes reacting with a little bloodshot.
Pressure has dropped to 12.
Career: Journalist
Personal: University education, married
36 years, four adult children, glasses for reading, distance
fine. Healthy except for raised cholestoral, low iron and
low blood pressure.
Hobbies: Family and movies
Last update: September
10, 2004
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Barb
Born: August 1940
Residence: Canada
Age diagnosed: 62
Glaucoma History: In August at my annual checkup I had a slight rise in pressure. A month later it was 35 and next 40. I have 20 in the other eye and take cosopt for the affected eye. My headaches were very severe when I started the medication and I am concerned about the systemic side effects of the circulation as my age is not a good age to have a problem in that area.
Career: Retired teacher
Personal: I live on a small farm in eastern Canada near the ocean. I have 5 children and 14 grandchildren.
Hobbies: I like to teach music I play the cello in a community orchestra. I enjoy walking everyday, travelling and bird watching.
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Carolyn
Born: November 1943
Residence: New Jersey
Glaucoma Type: Glaucoma suspect/open-angle
Age diagnosed: 37?
Glaucoma History: Father had glaucoma, many meds. My pressure started going up, mid to high 20's. Took Betoptic, then Timoptic .5% for years, then .25%. Pressures around 21, some checks went up to low 20's. Last year, pressures went to mid to high 20's. Switched to Alphagan, IOP's better, 19-20. Lately back to 28, 27. Nerves & visual field good. Going to glaucoma specialist regarding should I do more meds, or what? Don't like beta blocker idea again, had
chronic cough. Doctor has mentioned doing laser. Short Xalatan try made no effect.
Career: School psychologist
Personal: Married, one black cat
Hobbies: Advocate for people with disabilities (the Equalizers). Love reading & cats.
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Cheryl C.
Born: December 1951
Residence: New
Zealand
Age diagnosed: 47
Glaucoma History: Have tried 3 types of drops. They have not lowered my pressure enough. Had laser surgery, and this did not lower pressure either. Specialist now talking about surgery.
Career: Relief teacher and a partner in takeaway business.
Personal: My Dad has glaucoma also and has lost the sight in his left eye. He has had surgery on his right eye to try and save the sight. I have 2 children, a son and a daughter.
Hobbies: Partner in a race horse. Enjoy belonging to helping organisations. Enjoy reading health books and walking.
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CupCrm
Born: May 1979
Residence: USA
Glaucoma Type: ?
Age diagnosed: 24
Glaucoma History: I was diagnosed with my glaucoma at age of 17 and 24. I don't like measurement of the tonometry (such as a TONO-PEN XL) and maybe in 2005 or 2006 I will be going to another doctor on LI in Great Neck that is specializing in tonometry without eyedrops (the TGDc-O1 tonometry) by touching eyelids instead of a TONO-PEN XL or air puff to see if the pressure is down till I don't need anymore eyedrops.
Hobbies: I like travelling around to Santo Domingo, Israel, Vegas and more and more places around the countries and South America.
Last update: March 4, 2004 |
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Erik
Born: June 1966
Residence: Chicago, Il
Age diagnosed: 34
Glaucoma History: I am adopted, therefore have no family history. I am very concered being so young.
Career: Sales
Personal: Very active, excercise, hyper active, social drinker
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Fishwomen
Born: November 1962
Residence: Michigan
Glaucoma Type: still trying to find out
Age diagnosed: 40
Glaucoma History: Starting in January of 2003 I've had a year's worth of rollercoastering. I had a surprise diagnosis ending in cataract surgery with inter-ocular implants in February and March of 2003. On my first visit the ophthamologist was concerned over my "large eyes" and began treating me with Alphagan. After the surgery we also discovered I am a extreme steriod responder. Since then we have done a cornucopia of drugs, including Diamox and more drops than I can shake a stick at. I've since had 2 SLT's in both eyes, currently using Cosopt and Lumigan both eyes. I hate to confess that my pressures were 12/15 before my last SLT(Feb 04)and are currently 18 in both eyes. Of course, parts of me wonders how much of this rollercoaster has to do with the steroids I seem to have been on almost continually in the last year. LOL. I started life being extremely myopic with constant degeneration - needing an updated prescription every 3-6 months since before kindergarten up to my cataract surgery. I wore hard lenses until they were no longer used and gas permeable after that for 25 years. My last scrip for contacts showed I was -22 both eyes. For the last several years I had to wear my last pair of contacts to get my scrip for the new ones as my doc didn't have enough lenses to refract that far. I've gone to the same optometrist since I was 15 and he measured my pressures every year with the puff of air. I averaged between 16 & 18 for most of my life. I also had posterior vitreal detachments in both eyes before I was 29 leaving me with extreme floaters that I have to "look around". If I translate "glaucoma" to "nerve damage" I wonder if the nerve damage I have could actually be just a birth defect since my eyes have always been messed up. I've NEVER been able to see. I've only had two other visits to an ophthomalogist, One was 26 years ago and the other was after my first PVD. Unfortunately,there are no pictures of my optic nerves from back then to help me out. I am frightned and nervous as for the last 6 months my optho.
has threatened me with referring me out to have trabs in both eyes everytime I see him. It's gotten to the point I don't even want to go to an appointment. I guess I'm still stunned by the speed with which this diagnosis has occurred and accelerated. I really would like more education or communication to bring me to the same position the doctor is at. I'm basically a year behind him I guess. I would really like some more pictures of my nerves taken and let's watch it a bit longer. It's all just happening so fast.
Career: Bookkeeper
Personal: Married with two step-children (21 & 19). I have spent the last six years working 55-65 hours a week and just went down to 33 hours. I now work as a bookkeeper and have to be able to support myself for at least another 24 years. I have extreme allergies/asthma as well as other health problems which leaves me taking drugs that I always feel negatively impacts my IOP.
Hobbies: Reading, writing, counted-crossstich (ok, it's been a few years LOL) crocheting. Hiking, walking, CATS, Movies, NAPS, Gardening, Yoga - after 23 years of practice just learned "No Inversions with Glaucoma" Ooops. Been standing on my head for years. Fishing on Lake Michigan and the Pere Marquette River.
Last update: March 23, 2004 |
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givmemo
Born: January 1958
Residence: Saettle
Glaucoma Type: Glaucoma Suspect
Age diagnosed: 43
Glaucoma History: I haven't been able to get to the chats lately as I am working 1pm to 1130pm M-F, but thought that I would at least update my profile.
My eyesight started getting dramatically worse particularly for reading about a year ago. I went to a eye doctor to see if I needed to get glasses, had never had a problem before. I was given glasses for reading and computer work but in the course of that found that I had high IOP's in the mid to high 20's. I went to a opthamologist that specializes in laser surgery and was given a GDX, he told me that he thought that I had Glaucoma. He put me on Xalatan and said that he thought it was very early stages but he felt that it was a good idea to take the drops. After talking to the room I was convinced to go to a specialist, who said I was a suspect but that he didnt think I should take drops at this time and that we should just moniter it. I am still suspect and still having high IOP's L 27 and R 29 last visit. I have been told there is no nerve damage but that I have unusually thick corneas and that the Dr wants to continue to moniter me every 6 months. My Visual fields havent been too unusual and arent dramatically changing. I have been known to have sharp stabbing eye pain that only lasts for a second each time and my eye dr says he thinks its related to my eyes being dry.
Currently on no medication. So basically just hanging in there and keepin a close eye on things. I hope everyone else is doing well....Janine
Career: Insurance
Personal: 44, F, Seattle area, Single, no kids (other than the small furry kind, live near my family and spend as much time with them as I can.
Hobbies: Music, Reading, Travel, Concerts, enjoying life as much as is humanly possible on my paycheck LOL.
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HOHNancy
Born: 1969
Residence: Florida
Glaucoma Type: Glaucoma Suspect
Age diagnosed: 21
Glaucoma History: I have been an ocular hypertensive since 21, and starting in 1999 taking glaucoma medication to lower the pressure which is from early to mid 20s. One time it shot up to 28 which is when I started on drops. I used to use Xalatan, but I currently use Lumigan now. The drops lowered my pressure to the late teens. I have been very myopic (-9.00 diopters in both eyes) since I was only 4 years old.
Career: Data Entry Clerk
Personal: I am hearing-impaired since age 2, and never been married (I'm looking though!). :) I have one dog, and lives in a house on the lake with ducks and birds outside.
Hobbies: Computer Internet surfing, reading, watching good movies, shopping, watching wildlife outside such as ducks swimming in our lake.
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Gnr (Manuel Luis)
Born: May 1959
Residence: Portugal
Age diagnosed: 33
Glaucoma History: Near sighted since 18 with no symptoms whatsoever. One morning, in 1992, I woke up with a blind left eye. I had a blood vessel in central retina that was blocked. I recovered, but the macula was touched and I still see blind spots, and the contacts are not clear. I can read but it's difficult. Since then the doctors told me, considering what happened and an average IOP of 25 that I have glaucoma. I started with eye drops and for a while that worked. But, I then had to change drops, and now using two different drops, twice a day. My average IOP is 17 in left eye and 19 in the right one. My doctor hopes I don't need surgery and he doesn't believe in lasers. I'm hoping I could get a little bit more of my left eye vision.
Career: Lawyer
Hobbies: Reading, music and movies. No time for more.
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Hazel
Born: January 1961
Residence: Chula Vista, CA
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Hally
Born: 1970
Residence: Michigan
Glaucoma Type:
Age diagnosed: 31
Glaucoma History: I have been nearsighted since the age of 7. Have been watching my pressure elevate for the past 3 years, and perscription also worsen. Went to see an opthalmologist for the first time this year in March. He did all the testing and concluded with pressures of both eyes at mid to high 20's. Said at that time, no drops and with my family history he wanted to see me in 6 months. I thought I had asked all the right questions but I am still really confused and scared.
Anyone out there who could help ease my (fastly going insane) mind, please e-mail me. (July 2002)
Career: Cashier
Personal: Married to the man of my dreams. I have 5 step-kids & 5 grand-children.
Hobbies: Hubby & I love to go fishing. Also love to spoil my grand-children.
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HWDXDADRGN
Born: April 1973
ICQ Number: 76362006
Residence: Queens, N.Y
Age diagnosed: 25
Glaucoma History: Diagnosed with glaucoma during a post service check-up at a V.A. hospital in 1998. I have no family history of glaucoma and glaucoma wasn't detected prior to me coming into the military. As you may have guessed, Uncle Sam is taking no responsibility for this one.
Career: Exterminator
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JDunkley
Residence: Columbia,
SC
Birth: September 1961
Glaucoma Type: Glaucoma
suspect
Age diagnosed: 47
Glaucoma History: I
am 48 and have been blessed with good eyesight. Because
of this, I have rarely gone to an "eye doctor".
I went to an opthalmologist for the first time in about
10 years on 6/12/2008 -- not because I was experiencing
any major problems, but only because I knew it was good
to go periodically and because I had started to need reading
glasses when reading fine print. On this visit, without
any baseline to compare to, the doctor diagnosed me with
glaucoma based on an optic nerve that looked unusual and
cup measurements of .59 and .69. My IOP was 17/17. I was
initially put on Xalatan, but experienced pain when administering
the drops that would last as long as an hour and my eyes
were sore all day long. These side effects, and others,
continued even after being switched to Lumigan. Although
my doctor told me that he had never heard of these problems
with anyone else, I did some research and found out that
they are not uncommon. Other complications that developed
and continued for several months included double vision,
sharp stinging sensations around my eyes, a "cross-eyed"
sensation when cutting my eyes in certain directions and
blurred patches in my field of vision. After talking to
and visiting other opthalmologists, I have stopped using
the medication and have come to the conclusion that, at
the very least, my original diagnosis was premature. It
has taken a few months since stopping the medication for
these side effects to improve, but they have. My guess is
that it took the medication a while to get out of my system.
Although I realize that I may still have glaucoma and the
doctor I am now seeing stated that my optic nerve looks
"suspicious", I recently scored great on a Field
Vision Test. I recommend that all of you "do your homework"
and don't hesitate to get a second opinion.
Hobbies: Bible Study, Biking, Golf and
Family Time
Personal: Married,
2 girls ages 9 and 6. Have worked in banking, medical sales,
swimming pool industry, Christian ministry and started a
small business.
Last Update: January 22, 2009 |
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Jonashville
Residence: North
Carolina
Birth: March 1965
Glaucoma Type: Suspect
Age diagnosed: 43?
Glaucoma History: I
went for a routine eye exam at 38 and was referred to an opthalmalogist
for visual fields test. He reassured me that I didn't have glaucoma. Then
I went again to an optometrist, who again said my pressure is high (?)
and wants to do the visual fields again. I'm scared about all this.
Hobbies: Reading, traveling
Personal: Single
adoptive M of a 6 y/o. work as a social worker.
Last Update: October 3, 2008
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LouiseT
Born: December 1946
Residence: New Jersey
Glaucoma Type: Suspect
Age diagnosed: 47
Glaucoma History: I have been a Glaucoma Suspect for 10 yrs and have been closely followed without medication. Just this year after 10 yrs of Good Visual Fields I am showing some abnormalities in the VF test. No Optic Nerve Damage and No Cupping. Now Im told I have to go on Medication(Xalatan) as a precaution. Doctor doesnt know how to label me right now because there is No Nerve Damage, but the last 2 fields weren't normal. This is a Very Confusing and Stressful situation.
Career:
Personal: I am a homemaker married to a wonderful man for 30 years. We have no children but we have a minature poodle whom we are crazy about. Life has been good. But this glaucoma thing is a shock. Parents and siblings do not have it.
Hobbies: Boating and computers
Last update: April 29, 2003 |
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IdaBob
(Bob)
Born: October 1943
Residence: Boise, Idaho
Glaucoma
Type: Not sure?? I think I heard the term open-angle
Age
diagnosed: 56
Glaucoma History: Started with itchy
eyes due to weed allergy...was diagnosed as "possible gluacoma." Saw
specialist who participated in a program called Glaucoma 2000....which
amounts to "free" service. Went on Cosopt, Alphagan, and Xalatan, pressure
never over 25 in both eyes. Had trab late in August 2001, pressure now 11!
No inflammation, no infection but cornea is "swollen" hence vision in left
eye affected. Cannot see my hand with arm outstretched. Doctor says that
all will be o.k. The pressure is down now... ya-hoo-o-o! ... and I am
blind as a bat in a coffee can!
Career: State Job Consultant
Personal: Born
in Ft. Rucker, Alabama 1943. Father an Engineer (building Dams) traveled
lived in 8 states, and 11 schools, 4 different high schools. No pictures
in year books, and no proms....boo-hoo! Have lived in Boise for past 25
years...nice town until the California/Washinton/Oregon migration took
place...everyone wants to get away from the smog and overcrowding! Have
degree in Sociology. Worked in construction, truck-driving, State of Idaho
job consultant. Team taught statistics, social problems at Boise State
University. Never married, missed the bullet twice.
Hobbies: Love
all electronic gadgets, follow all science programs on PBS etc. Have been
Surfing web since 1986. Have digital camera, scanner, MP3 player, etc.
Love the traveling Antique Road Show. Have a collection fo Life Magazines
in good condition, still a bit musty. |
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Jean
Born: September 1945
Residence: Massachusetts
Glaucoma Type: Not sure at this time.
Age diagnosed: 55
Glaucoma History: I was on drops for two years. Now having laser on each eye with three weeks in between and don't know yet if this is working.
Career: Buyer
Personal: I love living in Mass. I am a grandmother of 7 working a lot, new to the chat room.
Last update: February 7, 2005 |
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Karen
Born: April 1947
Residence: Cape
Cod, MA
Glaucoma
History: Recently diagnosed as pre-glaucoma. I have been dealing
with this for about 2 years. Several years prior to this, I suspected I
might have a problem, but chose not to deal with it. According to the
people in the chat room, I should see a glaucoma specialist, so that is
what I plan on doing. Enough said for now. If anyone would like to e-mail
me, that would be great.
Hobbies: Reading, bicycling, step
aerobics/strength training, gardening, crocheting. Backyard birdwatching
and feeding along with squirrels (choose to love them too) |
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Kat
Born: March 1963
Residence: NY
Glaucoma Type: Ocular Hypertension
Age diagnosed: 21
Glaucoma History: Diagnosed at around age
21. Went to an optometrist for contacts and walked out a glaucoma
suspect. Dr. later confirmed ocular hypertension and always
at risk for glaucoma. My latest eye exam revealed pressures
of 29, presumably in both eyes. If they're still elevated
when I get rechecked next week, I will have to go on medication.
The Dr. says I still don't have glaucoma as of yet, but I'm
still scared about all of this.
Career: Graphic Artist/Artist
Personal: Graphic art background. Presently working
on my Masters of Arts in Liberal Studies. AA in Graphic Design
and BA in Arts. Hoping to find a job in web or graphic design
when I'm finally finished with college, or even start my own
business.
Hobbies: Spending time with my beautiful 20 lb.
black cat, Ember, and my beautiful fiance, Paul. Listening
to music, riding my atv, hiking in the woods, swimming, doing
artwork, and working out.
Last update: July 6, 2006 |
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Keowin
Born: September 1942
Glaucoma Type:
Age diagnosed: 56
Glaucoma History: I am very myopic since early childhood. My pressure in my left eye is 29 and 25 in my right. I have tried all the drops but I am allergic to the preservatives. I am currently on alphagan with purine preservative which works but is not lowering my pressures. I went for a second opinion and have a prescription for neptazane but I am afraid of the sude effects. I guess I am just scared of losing my sight. I wear contacts and have very good vision and if I have a bleb, I understand I cannot wear contacts. My prescription is so high they cannot make glasses. I have a cataract implant in my left eye and I see very well with it. I am not sure what to do next. It has me very upset.
Career: Wellness therapist
Personal: I am married. I am a R.N., retired Professor of Nursing and have a Ph.D. and practice as a wellness therapist here in Illinois. I am in excellent health but overweight. I am an artist and love to read. Very scared about this glaucoma.
Hobbies: I paint on silk and do colored pencil art. I also love gardening when the weather permits.
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Linda
Born: December 1953
Residence: High Point, NC
Glaucoma Type: Glaucoma suspect
Age diagnosed: 31
Glaucoma History: During routine eye exam in 1985, pressure showed mid twenties in both eyes. Doctor informed me I was a "suspect" for glaucoma. My mother is also a "suspect". I have had the pressure monitored 2 X a year (sometimes more) for the past 17 years. The field vision tests that I have taken every year have always showed good results with no loss of vision. The optic nerve has also shown no damage. This has been the case for the last 17 years until January of this year when the doctot felt I needed to go on drops (Timoptic) because the pressure had risen to almost 30 in both eyes. Last month when I went back to the doctor he was not happy with the results of taken the Timoptic (pressure was at 27 in both eyes), so he now has me on Cosopt. He just recently added Travastan to with the Cosopt because after taken a Optic nerve test, he says there is some cupping in the right eye. The Cosopt lowered the pressure to 21 in both eyes, but because he is seeing the cupping he has added Travastan to (hopefully) bring the pressure down even more. This is all scaring me very much and now I am very worried about losing my vision. Can anyone calm my anxiety and worries here. I'm also very worried about the side effects I will develop from taking these meds. I wear RGP contacts and since taking the medications they are no longer very comfortable to wear. Appreciate any help/advice I can get from anyone...PLEASE. Thank you.
Career: Material Manager
Personal: Have 2 grown boys. My one son lives in Minnesota and my other son goes to Bowling Green State Univ. I have a wonderful husband. Lived in Ohio all my life until 5 years ago when I moved to North Carolina for a job transfer.
Hobbies: I am a fanatic about exercising and faithfully go to step acrobics five times a week. I like making crafts, wallpapering and stenciling. |
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Mary
Residence: Amherst, MA
Glaucoma Type: Occular hypertensive, open-angle
Age diagnosed: 39
Glaucoma History: Because of high IOP's (along with a strong family history of glaucoma and asymmetric optic nerves) I've just begun treatment.
Career: Secretary
Personal: I've been a secretary for 25 years. I have 9 wonderful nieces and nephews. They are my joy. I'm trying to get used to putting drops in my eyes as I've never used drops or contacts before. It's quite comical! I hope it will become more routine as time goes on. This is a WONDERFUL site! I've been reading the chat highlights for some time now and find them very informative.
Last update: January 7, 2004 |
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Momsquared
Born: May 1973
Residence: Michigan
Glaucoma Type: Unknown at this time
Age diagnosed: 29
Glaucoma History: I just found out today (July 30, 2002) that I have it. Really no history at all, no one in my family has it either, that we know of! The pressure in my eyes at this time is 13/14 but spiked last year to 19/21. The doctor decided to air on the side of caution and have me get a GDx nerve fiber analysis and it came back as early stage glaucoma. I have to get more tests done to determine any damage and also the kind of glaucoma.
Career: Mom
Personal: I have been married to a wonderful man for 8 years and have 2 very beautiful healthy kids a daughter 5 and a son 4. I have worn glasses since I was 12 years old and have noticed lately I have been suffering from quite frequent headaches not sure if that is the glaucoma or the kids!!
Hobbies: I love to work in the yard not just in the flower beds I also love to mow the grass... sit down guys I'm taken HA/HA!
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Nannoo
(Annette)
Born: July 1955
Residence: Geneva
Age
diagnosed: 45
Glaucoma History: Diagnosed recently,
very scared - my vision started to blur during the morning, I lost
peripheral vision and couldn't focus. It came back after an hour,
but I was sent to an eye specialist who diagnosed glaucoma. Family
history, but no blindness. Vision back to normal, but still fear
going blind. Still have tests to be done, but in need of support.
Career: Intranet Editor
Personal: Recently married, wonderful
supportive husband, have a job I love but terrified of not being able to
continue.
Hobbies: Travel, reading, hiking
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Neil
Born: March 1949
Career: High school English teacher
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Stafford
Born: July 1959
Residence: Great Britain
Glaucoma Type: Early onset glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 26
Glaucoma History: Had problems working as a bespoke tailor, went to hospital and treated for muscle problems for 6 years. In 1992 I was tested by students who were the first people to do a pressure test finding that my pressure was 52 in my laft eye but ok in the right eye, I had drops followed by laser and in 1993 had a trabeculotomy followed by 7 x 5FU injections. My eye stings now in bright sunlight and air conditioning also when I get tired. In Febuary 2004 I had laser to prevent glaucoma in my right eye. My Aunt has also had operations for glaucoma.
Career: Equipment and Adaptations Officer
Hobbies: Sewing, swimming, getting out with the family and holidays
Last update: March 1, 2004 |
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Tom50
Born: December 1953
Residence: Saraland, Alabama
Glaucoma Type: Primary Open Angle
Age diagnosed: 47
Glaucoma History: After a couple of years of rising iops, my optometrist
referred me to a glaucoma specialist. I was diagnosed with glaucoma in September
of 2001. My iops at the time were in the 30s. Xalatan was prescribed though
briefly stopped for four weeks while I recovered from a bout of shingles and
a resulting eye infection. Within four months my iops stablized at 17 and 19.
That stability lasted for roughly two years until a few months ago, when the
pressures again began to rise. After trying travatan and then Lumigan, as of
This writing March 2, 2004, my iops are again stabalized at 18, both eyes.
Career: Computers
Hobbies: Computers, golf
Last Update: March 3, 2004 |
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Turtle45
Born: May 1931
Residence: Florida
Glaucoma Type: ?
Age
diagnosed: 70
Glaucoma History: I was diagnosed May
2001. I thought the reason I was having difficulty seeing was because of
an injury, I had a detached retina. I am unable to see at the top of the
right eye.
Career: Registered Nurse
Personal: I
have been working the past 15 years as an occupational health nurse. The
only health problem I have is the newly diagnosed glaucoma.
Hobbies: I
love to do most everything including work. |
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Jen
Born: 1982
Residence: Canada
Glaucoma Type: Advanced open- and closed-angle glaucoma, 1998
Glaucoma History: I lost a lost a lot of vision for no apparent reason. My intraocular pressure was close to 40 mm Hg when I was diagnosed at age 15. I was in great pain, suffering headaches and blurred vision for two weeks before that. I've been on and off glaucoma medication since then, but have not had surgery.
I 'm now using Cosopt and Azopt. I can only see "counting fingers" at less than a meter.
For two years I used a white cane, then I got Bronze, a dog guide. I wasn't big on dogs, but now I love them so much I'm interested in becoming a dog-obedience trainer and behaviorist.
I use Jaws, a screen reader, which can read any font, even the simulated Braille font on my computer. Jaws does not work in the Glaucoma chat room, so I use the MS magnification that came with Windows ME.
I have also suffered a severe loss of hearing. For "reading" my mail and dialog boxes that pop up, I use the Jaws' male synthesized voice, which I can understand better than the female voice.
Career: Student, working on Adult Graduation Diploma (Dogwood)
Interests: deaf-blindness, guide dogs (I am a handler), dog obedience/behavior, surfing the Net, Braille literacy, blindness-related mailing lists, chatting with people on MSN messenger and in chat rooms, kids, music, travel, curling, and learning.
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liloplantlady
Residence: New York
Glaucoma Type: Advanced
glaucoma
Birthday: August 1955
Age diagnosed: 51
Glaucoma History: I
have been using store bought reading glassed for years,
when I had my eyes tested, found out about my glaucoma.
I have about a 50% loss in my right eye.
Personal bio: Married, mom to 4. Grandma
to 1. My hometown is Seattle, Wash. I am in NY State for
now. I work full time, at a big discount store. My husband
is retired.
Hobbies:
Love growing outdoor bamboo plants, flowers and trying a
few tropicals. I crochet afghans, being outside. Hearing
from people from all over and how they are coping.
Last Update: May 12, 2011 |
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pattypatch
Residence: Ft Worth, TX
Birth: August 1956
Glaucoma Type: Advanced open angle glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 53
Glaucoma History: Experienced
sudden vision loss in left eye Aug 2009 and was diagnosed
with advanced glaucoma in November 2009. Field vision test
showed 80-85% loss in left eye and 25-30% in right eye.
Maximum eye drops prescribed in December and IOP under control
for only 2 months. Had trabeculectomy in left eye 4/26/10
and am now recovering.
Personal: Active outgoing single and optimistic
person that lives with 9 cats, three dogs and my sweetheart.
Hobbies:
Gardening (both flower and vegetable), camping,
hiking, computer skilled, puzzles
Last Update: May 1, 2010 |
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Plumber
(George)
Born: April 1949
Residence: Chunky, Mississippi
Glaucoma Type: Advanced Open Angle
Age diagnosed: 50
Glaucoma History: Misdiagnosed in 1987, laser
surgrey performed then to solve problem. Diagnosed
in 1999 as advanced open angle, with severe damage to both
optic nerves. Two surgreys on right eye to install
filter, last one worked. Still on meds in left eye,
but refusing surgrey.
Career: Retired Plumber
Personal: Born and raised in Texas, now
living alone in Mississippi. Started getting SS in
April 2000 because of vision lost and damage to leg caused
by accident in 1995. Have turned into computer nut
and spent way too much time on line or helping friends understand
their own computers. I love my ZDTV!!
Hobbies: music, learning and computers.
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Rey
Born: March 1937
Residence: Rosedale, NY
Glaucoma Type: Advanced
Age diagnosed: 63
Glaucoma History: Operated with laser and non-laser twice in 2000 for left and right eye. Medication ongoing.
Career: Retired
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AndyK aka Andy from New York
Born: 1977
Residence: New York City
Glaucoma Type: Normal Tension Glaucoma (misdisgnosed)
Age diagnosed: 28
Glaucoma History: Was (mis)diagnosed by a NYC glaucoma specialist at age 28. Started taking Xalatan, thinking "it's only eye-drops".
While researching glaucoma on the web, I ran across Glaucoma chat, and met the wonderful folks here. Thanks to everyone here, my friends and family, and especially Norma D, Dr. Wilson, and Vivian, I found out that I was misdiagnosed.
Saw another three doctors (2 of them glaucoma specialists) who confirm the misdiagnosis.
Career: IT Consultant
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Barbara PS
Born: April 1942
Residence: Vermont
Glaucoma Type: Normal-tension
Age diagnosed: 60
Glaucoma History: Routine eye exam in the late 1990s showed pressures
of 21R / 20L, making me glaucoma suspect. Regular follow-up exams
showed pressures reduced to 14-18 range and everything normal. In March
2002 I noticed I was having trouble seeing and soon realized I had a
blind area in the upper to central part of my right eye. Pressures were
normal, but there was considerable discomfort. Initial diagnosis was
optic neuritis. In April 2002 a second ophthalmologist found pressures
of 22R / 21L and optic rim abnormalities, and he diagnosed Normal
Tension Glaucoma. Glaucoma and optic nerve specialists to whom I was
sent corroborated this diagnosis. Because of persistent pain, I had a CT
to check for a tumor and sinus problems. All looked normal.
I began one-eye testing of beta blockers in June 2002 Betimol, then
Timolol, then Timilol XE. Possible 15-20% reduction of pressure after
many weeks. My ophthalmologist was not satisfied with this result, and
asked me to try out Alphagan P. This drop, however, had no effect
whatever on IOP. In fact, pressure rose during this test to 22.5R / 22L,
and the doctor is no longer firm on the diagnosis of NTG. Am currently
testing Trusopt and, depending on its helpfulness, may add the beta
blocker to the medication routine by switching to Cosopt.
My vision has remained stable during this trial period. If anything, the
blind spot is not quite as broad as it was at first. Im scheduled for
another visual field test in January. Have had an HRT analysis but
havent talked with my doctor about it yet. Physical discomfort in the
affected eye has been virtually non-stop for nearly nine months. I have
been concerned about the diagnosis of NTG because the blind spot
appeared so suddenly and there has been so much discomfort (from dull
aching to sharp pain) in and around my eye. Shortly before I noticed I
was having trouble seeing, I had maxillofacial surgery (lower left jaw)
under general anesthesia. When I came out of that procedure, my right
eye was bloodshot, and there were broken blood vessels on the upper and
lower lids. Although my eye may have been fragile or compromised to
begin with, I have suspected that something in the anesthesia I was
given ultimately damaged my vision.
There are eye abnormalities and different kinds of glaucoma among
relatives; I have a history of ocular migraines and sinus pressure, and
I was hit in the eye with a tennis ball when a teenager.
Career: Artist (Graphic design, painting)
Personal: I seem to be a perpetual student. Lived the life of a starving artist and grad student in New York City for about 20 years then moved
to Vermont. Married, no children (my husband has grown children). We
live on a dirt road, have a wonderful little Bichon, and six computers.
I work at home as a graphic designer (mostly book design and
illustration) and paint still lifes.
Hobbies: Gardening, especially. I love to cook and enjoy cross-country
skiing, collect classical and ethnic music. Some years back I joined a
gym, where I use a treadmill, work out with weights, and swim laps. I
guess Im an Internet and Animal Planet junkie, too.
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Barbara S.
Born: March 1951
Residence: Maitland, FL
Glaucoma Type: Normal Tension Glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 49
Glaucoma History: This diagnosis came as a shock to me as I was just getting my eyes checked for Lasik surgery. They told me my pressures were 17-18 and my cup to disc ratio was .55. I was now a "suspect" and will probably develop the disease.
Career: Media Consultant with a college textbook company
Hobbies: Travel and reading. If I have to give these up I will be heart-broken.
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BumpSki
Born: 1952
Residence: Springville, PA
Glaucoma Type: Normal-tension Glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 42
Glaucoma History: Complained to optometrist and doctor (GP) of distorted vision 2 years before actual diagnosis (Pressure normal no problem!!!). Optometrist does visual field and finds significant loss in right eye. Sequence of medications over years. Now taking Cosopt, Alphagan, Travatan, most powerful medication possible, pressure now 12, more vision loss in right eye, surgery, strong consideration. Meds to expensive now buying meds from Canada!!! See my article www.bobshowto.com/canadian-pharmacy.htm
Also ALT twice right eye. SLT left eye.
Career: Electrical Engineer - semi-retired.
Personal: Married, living in Springville PA. Doing Website development. Electrical Engineer, Drexel University.
Hobbies: Skiing, Gardening, Do It Yourself projects, physics, astronomy, electronics, computers.
Personal webpage: www.bobshowto.com
Last update: August 25, 2004 |
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Carly
Born: August 1945
Residence: New York City
Glaucoma Type: Normal-tension glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 55
Glaucoma History: Have absolutely NO history of any eye problems. Have worn reading glasses since age 39. I was greatly shocked and surprised this past summer when my Ophthalmologist diagnosed me with Normal Tension galucoma. Although my field of vision is normal, optical imaging shows deep cupping. I am now on Lumigan.
Career: Laboratory Technologist
Personal: I am divorced and have an adult married son and two granddaughters. I am employed by the NYC Board of Ed as a Laboratory Specialist and work in a local school near my home in Bayside Queens. My degrees are in Biology, and I guess I am what you might call a non-conformist in that my interests are not those of most females my age.
Hobbies: UFOlogy, reading, volunteer work for local ambulance, and am passionately interest in the sciences. I also love to travel, have been all over this country and Europe - and consider myself quite fortunate to have led thus far a very happy and productive lifestyle. I also enjoy helping others in any way I can, as I find so many people are so caught up in their own problems and mundane issues that they lose sight of our purpose on this earth.
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celletay
Born: November 1962
Residence: Rising Sun, MD
Glaucoma Type: Normal-tension
Age diagnosed: 42
Glaucoma History: Diagnosed 7/2004. No family history of glaucoma on either side, but I am half-Japanese as well as quite myopic and a type 2 diabetic (diagnosed 3/2004). I have a visual field defect in the right eye. Pressures between 20-25 in both. Xalatan, Azopt and Alphagan have failed to make any difference in my pressures, so I am scheduled for a trabeculectomy for the right eye in December.
Career: Researcher
Personal: I live in a quiet, rural area of Maryland with my wonderful husband, our two German Shepherd Dogs and two cats. Right now, both of our jobs are 100% computer-related, but we're hoping to someday open a business of some kind that allows us to spend more time with dogs.
Hobbies: Schutzhund, music, computers, graphic and web design
Last update: October 13, 2004 |
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Cheryl
Born: April 1960
Residence: Eastern Washington
Glaucoma Type: Advanced NTG
Age diagnosed: 40
Glaucoma History: No one in my family had Glaucoma. I've worn glasses for 20 years and always had regular eye exams. Had congentinal optic pits diagnosed when I was 30. Don't know how they missed that for so long. I was watched closely for over 10 years after that. I saw a new doctor who diagnosed NTG and he said I probably had NTG for at least 10 years. I was uspet that it was missed for so long. I lost 50% of my vision in my left eye, 30% in the right. I found a great Glaucoma specialist in Seattle, now I take alphagan and travatan. I am also participating in the Memantine drug study. Hopefully the Memantine will work, if it dosen't save my vision at least it might save my mind and I'll be able to remember where I put things when I'm old and blind. Despite low pressures my eyes contine to get worse. Had a great doctors visit 12/02, first time that the tests didn't show any progression. I see him every 3 months.
Career: Electronics
Personal: I work full time as an process instrument technician. Currenty heavy into computer repair. I like to exercise. Married with 2 beautiful daughters, 8 & 10. I spend alot of time with the girls doing homework. Feel like I will deserve an honary Masters degree if the homework load doesn't lighten up. (Updated 1-03)
Hobbies: Bargain hunting at thrift stores, Soccer & basketball Mom, School projects, jigsaw puzzles and crossword puzzles. Would like to learn spanish.
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dandrea
Born: 1970
Glaucoma Type: Normal-tension glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 49
Glaucoma History: Suddenly lost most of my sight in my left eye, especially near the central field of vision. Was diagnosed with NTG and within the past six months it has progressed in spite of lowering the pressure by 30%.
Hobbies: knitting, stained glass, gardening, sewing, quilting |
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Dee
Residence: UK
Birth: April 1958
Glaucoma Type: Normal
tension glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 45
Glaucoma History: Diagnosed
19 years ago but thought to be "tilted disc".
Small defect until 5 years ago. Now marked in right eye
and mild in left. Drops have not done much, laser didn't
either-just had trabeculectomy last week.
Personal: Busy job, 2 grown up children,
pets and keen rider- hoping to come dude ranching in Colorado
in september if all well by then. Concerned how
this will impact on my professional and social life.
Hobbies: Sport,cooking,dogs and horse riding
Last Update: June 16, 2009 |
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Galojay
Born: September 1978
Residence: Kentucy
Glaucoma Type: Normal-tension glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 27
Glaucoma History: I was just diganosed with
Low Tension Glaucoma.
Last update: November 6, 2005 |
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Ginny
Born: September 1952
Residence: Austin, Texas
Glaucoma Type: NTG
Age diagnosed: 40
Glaucoma History: Mod-severe optic nerve damage in L eye. Drops for 12 years, a trab last year for left eye. Recent disc hemmorhage in R eye.
Career: Social worker
Last update: October 27, 2004 |
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Holly
Born: May 1955
Residence: Wilmington, DE
Glaucoma Type: NTG
Age diagnosed: 40
Glaucoma History: I began treatment with drops even though my pressures were in the low teens because I continued to lose vision - primarily in my left eye. I had laser treatment in left eye in 2000 - hated it. (I am very very squemish about anything to do with eyes) I've tried all sorts of herbal formulas and vitamins (pressures were down to 10/11)but developed severe gastro symptoms last fall and since doctors didn't know what caused it (after 3 days in the hospital and lots of tests)I stopped the herbs. I was taking AZopt and Iopindine 3 times a day for years with good control (last pressures were 17/18) but in May of this year I developed a severe allergy to apparently (Doctor from Wills Eye suspects) the preservatives in the drops. I have been off ALL drops since mid June) Now he is talking surgery and I am terrified!
Career: Accounting
Personal: Married, 2 kids age 17 and 12. Work part time and am now president of Home & School association. Too busy!
Hobbies: Love gardening, reading, my Golden, walking (at least before I broke my foot this spring)
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Inma
Born: April 1979
Residence: Warrington
Glaucoma Type: Normal-tension glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 11
Career: Nurse
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Jim
Born: January 1939
Residence: Rochester, NY
Glaucoma Type: NTG
Age diagnosed: 64
Glaucoma History: Fall of '03 noticed blurring
in my right eye. Optometrist gave a field of vision test and
sent me to a specialist. Pressure was measured five times.
Varied from four readings at 17 to final reading at 21. He
prescribed Xalatan. In March switched me to Lumigan. In April
added Cosopt. In June added Alphagan. In June had a head MRI.
No problems there. Glaucoma specialist mentioned possibility
of surgery. Went for second opinion. Doctor said your pressure
is perfect (9) surgery doesn't make sense. He suggested a
list of vitamins and health pills (e.g., Resveatrol, Ginkgo
Biloba, Lutein, COQ10, Vitamin E). No history of Glaucoma
in my family. Started wearing glasses for reading after 50.
Career: Retired
Personal: Married with two children who are just out of college and starting their careers.
Hobbies: Golf, swimming, jogging, family and travel.
Last update: September 9, 2004 |
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jzzrun
Born: February 1955
Residence: Massachussetts
Glaucoma Type: Normal-tension glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 45
Glaucoma History: Noticed small grey spot center of left eye. Pressures were 17, my cousin is an eye doctor and took me right away and diagnosed me with Glaucoma. 3 years and 4 specialists later have kept pressures between 12-14. Cupping in both eye's 3 years ago, had lazer in both eye's and brought pressures to 10. Went up again in months with no damage for 2 years. Have tried every drop they make, currently on timoptic xe and lumigan. New blind spots just showed up on visual field. Just had trabeculectomy in left eye, healing presure at 10 today but not sure what the future holds. I drive for a living at night hoping to stop the loss of sight soon praying this operation will do it.
Career: Delivery driver
Personal: 48 years old healthy and active. Live on conservation land in western Mass. with my Chihuahua Xena. Retired from the horse racing industry.
Hobbies: Biking, hiking, going to Vegas
Last update: November 4, 2003 |
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Leslie
Born: May 1936
Residence: Santa Barbara, CA
Glaucoma Type: Low tension
Age diagnosed: 66
Glaucoma History: Since my mother lost her vision around 80, decided I better have glaucoma check. My doctor at that time, indicated I had no problems since my tenision was 14. My husband was having retinal vein occulusions and liked his young doctor, so decided to go to him. He did not like the look of my cupped right optic nerve and suggested I visit a glaucoma specialist. I did and after all the tests decided I was a glaucoma suspect. Since that time there has been more optic nerve damage, so am now diagnosed with low tension glaucoma. After 9 months, they are trying to get the pressure below 12. Have tried lots of different medications without much reduction. Doing the best on xalatan.
Career: Retired teacher, Real Estate Professional
Personal: I am a California native living in Santa Barbara. Am a retired elementary school teacher. My husband and I manage rental property and are involved in community volunteer projects. Life has been good to us. Sure want to keep my eye sight and am grateful that we have good doctors in the vicinity.
Hobbies: Very active senior that plays tennis, enjoys traveling and looks forward to taking care of 3 year old grandson.
Last update: June 1, 2003 |
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Lois
Born:
April 1959
Residence: Michigan
Glaucoma
Type: Low Tension
Age diagnosed: 40
Glaucoma History:
Newly diagnosed with low tension glaucoma. I have no symptoms, and
was discovered incidentally following a black eye I received playing
soccer. I have significant optic nerve cupping (.9) and also rather
substantial visual field degradation--but, so far I am still seeing quite
well.
Career:
CAT Scan Technologist, Educator, Entrepreneur
Personal: I am
president of a medical education company (sells CE materials to health
care professionals and to pharmaceutical companies) and also
vice-president of an Occupational Medical company. I also work part time
in CAT scan. I'm married and have three wonderful daughters.
Hobbies: Piano, art, soccer, water
& snow skiing, travel, dancing, wine tasting. |
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Lojan (Lois
J.)
Born: June 1928
Residence: NC
Glaucoma
Type: Low or normal-pressure-glaucoma
Age
diagnosed: 73
Glaucoma History: No family history of
this disease. Complete shock when told of the diagnosis. I had never heard
of low-pressure-glaucoma. My husband and family have the high pressure
type. He has also had acute-angleclosure glaucoma and had to have an
alcohol block to stop the terrible pain. He lost all sight in that eye. He
also has macular degeneration in his left eye and has very limited vision.
Imperitive to save my sight.
Career: Retired homemaker
Personal: Born
and raised in Connecticut and have lived in Virginia, Michigan, Wisconsin,
Georgia and have now retired to North Carolina.
Hobbies: Hobbies are reading, golf
cycling. Most importantly our grandchildren. |
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Maddcow
Born: February 1947
Residence: El Paso, Texas
Glaucoma Type: Normal-tension glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 56
Glaucoma History: Just found out I have normal tension glaucoma. I have lost some vision in my left eye. Since my vision has been myopic since I was a child, losing any more sight is disturbing.
Career: Fedex Dispatcher
Personal: Married with 2 grown daughters and 3 grandchildren
Hobbies: Art, ping-pong, pool
Last update: October 27, 2003 |
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Marge
Born: April 1939
Residence: golf, swimming & reading
Glaucoma Type: NTG
Age diagnosed: 50
Glaucoma History: My mother had NTG. My regular ophthalmologist gave up on me about five years ago. Went to specialist - - cant seem to get a handle on it. Laser twice each eye. Used to be my right eye was the worst, now the left eye is going bad fast. My doctor moved out of state - - going to a new doctor now. We will see. Still driving but just locally - - blurring is bad at times, am a reader so this is frustrating. This group has been a Godsend.
Career: Self-employed
Personal: Married, 5 children, 11 grandchildren - - retired
Hobbies: Golf, swimming & reading |
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Mari
Born: July 1952
Residence: Georgetown, Kentucky
Glaucoma Type: NTG
Age diagnosed: 48
Glaucoma History: I have tried all drops
some pills, both lasers (alt,slt) and still have pressures
that are causing my visual field and optic nerve to progressively
get worse. I believe 2006 is the year for surgery.
Career: Retired elementary teacher
Personal: I am married with 2 grown children.
Retired 2 years ago from teaching, and am enjoying every
minute of my new freedom.
Hobbies: I love many things...quilting,
knitting, painting, reading, photograpy and selling antiques.
If I lose my site, I don't know what I will do.
Last update: January 6, 2006 |
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Marsha E.
Born: October 1951
Residence: Ohio
Glaucoma Type: NTG
Age diagnosed: 48
Glaucoma History: I was diagnosed in 99 ..used several different drops all of which while keeping pressures in check caused various side effects ..painfull joints etc ...so in November of 2003 had an SLT done and now drug free yeeehawww!!! I have cataracts but pressures are holding so far so good ..do not drive at night if I can help it.
Career: Logistics clerk hospital
Personal: I have one daughter 19 ...4 cats and 2 dogs.
Hobbies: Computer...reading ..drivng backroads..crafts ...working out at curves...and convincing the world I am only 37.
Last update: November 13, 2004 |
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Michelle
Born: August 1960
Residence: Houston, TX
Glaucoma Type: Normal-tension glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 41
Glaucoma History: I developed a scotoma in both eyes at age 39. Saw several retinal specialist who had no idea what was wrong. One even told me I wasn't going blind, and was too young to have glaucoma. Was tested fo brain tumors, strokes, even MS. Finally saw a neuro opthomologist at U of H who figured it out. I am with a great specialist at Baylor. I have tried drops-- lumigan and betimol-- and laser surgery, and continue to loose vision. I have lost 35% in my right eye and 10% in my left. Both blind spots are near the center of my vision. I just had a trabeculotomy in my right eye. Pressure is down to 10 there, but my remaining vision is still blurry. Extremely frustrating! Hope to recover and do the left eye soon.
Career: Photographer
Personal: Mother of 5, ages 9, 11, 13, 15, and 17. divorced in '99 and remarried in '03 to a fellow photographer. Studied fine art in college. Want to be an artist when I grow up.
Hobbies: Painting, gardening, music.
Last update: April, 14, 2004 |
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Mike K.
Born: March 1936
Residence: Cincinnati, OH
Glaucoma
Type: Open angle - "normal pressure"
Age
diagnosed: 64
Glaucoma History: IOP has not been
above 16 in either eye during the last several years. Torn retinas in both
eyes masked a decreasing visual field. Investigation of the visual field
loss, revealed an IOP of 21 in one eye and 18 in the other with a cup to
disk ratio of .8. Currently taking Xalatan in evening with improvement to
16-18 mm and Alphagan twice per day. IOP down to 14-15mm.
Career: Retired business executive
Personal: Recently retired officer of
major corporation. Very physically active - regular jogger and weights.
Ski a lot in winter. Very concerned about spending my "golden years" in
darkness. Wife and grown children very supportive.
Hobbies: Exercise, skiing, travel,
reading. Also, just finishing writing a book on business subject.
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Mimmy
Born: February 1960
Residence: Virginia
Glaucoma
Type: Normal-tension
Age diagnosed: 41
Glaucoma
History: Just starting out...diagnosed March 2001
Career: Product Manager
Personal: Very
happily married, two teenagers, two cats
Hobbies: Bicycling, enjoying nature,
art, reading, watching TV (ha! at least I admit it!), coordinating and
performing good deeds for the homeless and hungry. |
Mimmy and her
husband. |
CountryGirl
Born: October 1950
Residence: New York
Glaucoma Type: Normal-tension
Age diagnosed: 52
Glaucoma History: I have good vision and
didn't bother to get my eyes checked in my late 30s and through
my 40s. At 52, I went to an optometrist at Wal Mart who told
me he didn't like how my optic nerve looked in the right eye.
My pressures were 22 and 23. The first ophthalmologist I went
to said that the damage in the right eye is advanced. He put
me on various drops but the pressure never went below 16 or
so. In Dec. 2003 he did the ALT treatment, which didn't seem
to change anything. In the fall of 2004 I got tired of all
the side effects from the drops (and I've had everything from
depression to weight gain to dry mouth to heart pain) and
got the name of a GS from the Wills folks. He seems like a
competent Dr. and wants me to consider SLT. I'm blessed in
that my vision is correctible to 20/20 and I can see clearly
without glasses if I'm too lazy to put them on. I've lost
some peripheral vision at the top of my right eye, but it's
not a problem.
Update: 8/06
My pressures stayed in the 16-19 level until this year. I
started walking every other day in Nov. 2005, and EVERY day
in March of this year. I walk at a good pace, and uphill for
part of the time. My pressures are now 12-14 consistently.
I hate to exercise, but I now recommend it to folks with Glaucoma.
(Helps with the weight, too!!)
Career: Sales
Personal: I was born and brought up in upstate
New York, left for college and other adventures and came back
here in the '80s. My first jobs were with non-profits, but
20 years ago I got into sales and was a road salesperson in
the garment business for several year. Also sold uniforms,
audio books and gifts. Married for 28 years to a wonderful
man and have 3 stepchildren and 3 grandchildren.
Hobbies: Jim and I enjoy cruising on the
Hudson River in our little boat, playing in a nearby community
band, taking care of our patch of greenery and just enjoying
the ambience of living in the country. We raise chickens,
volunteer at our local library and have a small orchard of
antique apples.
I’m posting a photo of our boy, Finley.
Last update: August 24, 2006 |
Finley, CountryGirl's
Dog |
NancyG
Residence: Conway, AR
Birth: May 41
Glaucoma Type: NTG
Age diagnosed: 62
Glaucoma History: Opthamologist noticed optic nerve cupping in
left eye and began treating. Did not treat right eye even though I asked
him to do so. Changed doctors at next appt. date (year) and had glaucoma
in the left eye as well. Now live in a different state and have a very
good specialist who states that mine is autoimmune (I have 7 autoimmune
diseases) and that I am very rare, approximately 1/million. My vision
is deteriorating rapidly...down to 20% peripheral vison in my right and
about 50% in the left in spite of laser surgery in the right. Trab. being
considered. Presently on AlphaganP, Lumigan and Trusopt. I see my specialist
every 3 months and have lost ground nearly every time.
Hobbies: Enjoying researching various things on the
internet, reading, helping others, if only by encouragement and being
with my husband and small dogs (Yorkie lover). Used to volunteer in rescue
but I'm not able now. Past hobby was jewelry design and making but can
no longer do that due to the MG. Also, love to travel but am limited because
of the fatigue.
Personal: Only one other person in
my family with glaucoma, an uncle. I am very limited in what I can do
due to Addison's Disease, Myasthenia Gravis and Fibromyalgia, plus. My
attitude about all of this is positive. I am grateful to have medical
coverage and live in a country where I can receive treatment. My christian
faith upholds me in good and bad times.
Last Update: October 12, 2008
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pde
Residence: Stapleton,
AL
Birth: August 1933
Glaucoma Type: NTG
Age diagnosed: @ 2005
Glaucoma History: Started
having problems with seeing waves, colors, and various types
of floaters. When this was checked, it was then that the
Doctor supspected glaucoma. Just in the last couple of years
he has told me I had NTG. I do have cataracts also. I am
on Xalatan & Dorzolamide HCI-Timolol Maleate eye drops.
Hobbies: Reading, surfing the web, going
to garage sales.
Personal: I am 75 years
of age, born and raised in Castleberry, Alabama. I have
3 grown children. My husband and I have a good life living
in Stapleton, Al. My career has been in teaching and later
in life, for about the last 25 years, I have been involved
in research work in public records.
Last Update: July 20, 2009 |
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Puckster
Born: November 1978
Residence: Denver, CO
Glaucoma Type: Normal tension, open-angle
glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 25
Glaucoma History: Slight vision loss in
my lower left eye, put on Alphagan, which didn\'t lower IPO
enough, neither did Xalatan. Was on Alphagan and Xalatan and
had a difficult time remembering to take my drops. Tried Travatan,
which lowered pressure well, but I had horribly red eyes.
Went back to Xalatan/Alphagan combo and am having problems
with dizziness, dry mouth, fatigue, etc. Thinking red eyes
are a better option.
Career: Artist
Personal: Artist - printmaker, painter,
sculptor. Some furniture design and learning graphic design
Hobbies: Cycling, nordic skiing, running,
reading, cooking, dogs(!!!)
Last update: February 20, 2006 |
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Rose
Born: September 1934
Residence: Jersey City
Glaucoma Type: Normal-tension glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 65
Glaucoma History: Glaucoma about same three years, cataract and scotoma.
Career: Teacher - Business Owner -ibrettist
Hobbies: Working, Theater, Sewing, Jewelry making
Last update: April 12, 2004 |
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Tammy
Born: July 1962
Residence: West Virginia
Glaucoma Type: Normal-tension glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 44
Glaucoma History: My opthamologist noticed
cupping of my optic nerves 1 1/2 years ago. I was diagnosed
with normal tension glaucoma in September 2006 after the optic
nerve in my left eye showed deterioration. I now use Lumigan
drops.
Career: Secretary
Personal: Married with two kids, two dogs,
two turtles, and one cat.
Hobbies: Reading, crocheting, fishing, camping.
Last update: November 14, 2006 |
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Vicky
Born: July 1949
Residence: Texas
Glaucoma Type: NTG
Age diagnosed: 50
Glaucoma History: Strong family history of blindness; Grandma had retinitis pigmentosa; my Mom and Dad normal. I am very nearsighted and very scared of going blind.
Career: Director, Grant Development School District
Personal: Love my 24, 21, and 16 year-old kids. I have two in college and one more will be going soon. I love to garden, walk our recently-adoped poodle; and see if I can do something good for others.
Hobbies: Gardening, walking, travel
Last update: October 27, 2004 |
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vulcanator
Born: November 1973
Residence: Kentucky
Glaucoma Type: Normal-tension glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 28
Glaucoma History: I have been a glaucoma suspect since 1993. At that time had pressures at 21 both eyes and cupping of optic disks. An opthamologist I went to at the time said it was probably congenital since I was a preemie and only had me go back once a year for VF tests. November '02 my optomotrist didn't feel comfortable with the opthamologists diagnosis so he sent me to a glaucoma specialist who diagnosed NTG (open angle). Since diagnosis pressures have dropped from 21 both eyes to 12 (left) and 16 (right), with the worse nerve damage in the left eye.
Career: Medical Technologist
Personal: Was a preemie born at 7 months. Weighed 2 lbs. 10 oz. ---cant tell it now. Have AAS degree in Veterinary Technology(medical) and BS degree in Medical Technology (ASCP). Currently working in hospital laboratory as bench tech and shift supervisor.
Hobbies: Enjoy anything outside. Sports, walking, running, exploring caves. Play piano. Enjoy model building.
Last update: June 17, 2003 |
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AerobicKat
Residence: San Diegp,
CA
Birth: January 1965
Glaucoma Type: open angle glaucoma?
Age diagnosed: 35
Glaucoma History: When
I went in for a routine eye exam then noticed the higher
pressure. This was when I was 35 but I had nothing else
to indicate that it was glaucoma. So they labeled me as
a suspect. After a while it became borderline glaucoma suspect.
I was in complete denial. I was put on eye drops just to
be safe. The doctor said it was working but wanted to experiment
with the best combinations for me. He mentioned surgery
but wanted to do the drops first. Now I wish I had pushed
it. I continued to be a borderline suspect until my health
insurance was cut off because of my divorce and my X didn't
want to pay for me. So at the time I became a single parent,
working mega hours at not the best pay but it was a job.
I didn't have the funds for appts nor the medication. I
did have a last check up and got the prescript filled before
I lost my insurance. Then I had to decide which of the two
medications I could afford. So for nearly 5 years maybe
it was 6 I've been on one of the medications. In the meantime....
I was still in denial but in April of 2009 it became very
aggressive and I started to notice loss of sight but I didn't
do anything about it until October, I started looking into
different options. By April of 2010 when i finally realized
that I had to have it checked my vision in my right eye
was severely gone. I am very right eyed and it was a real
blow. I have had to learn to use my left eye for all of
the things I did with my right. The hardest has been the
computer and reading. I am currently under the care of Dr.
Weinreb at UCSD and looking to getting the laser treatments
soon. I am very scared. I've talked to very few people about
this because I don't want the sympathy or the feeling sorry
for me. My children, all three of them do not know. I am
a group exercise instructor, personal trainer and I work
with seniors and people who need help w/ weight loss. I
am scared for as I said I 'm a single parent, if I can't
see I can't do my job, I can't drive and I really don't
want to be dependent on anyone. I'm only 45, I have more
things left to do yet. And to top it off, I am also hearing
impaired, which I've lived with virtually all my life, and
it doesn't scare me, what really does is if I go blind,
I will have no way to communicate....I really need some
hope and honestly....there seems to be none.
Personal: Single Parent, of three kids
17, 13 and 9. And they all seem to need me to take them
somewhere....what do I look like anyways? Working as a group
exercise instructor and personal trainer. I love my job!
And I don't want to have to give up doing it.
Hobbies:
I enjoy scrapbooking, reading, dancing, playing
games, card games, board games, computer games.
Last Update: June15, 2010 |
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anamtn
Residence: Memphis, TN
Glaucoma Type: POAG
Birthday: August 1958
Age diagnosed: 52
Glaucoma History:
Partial loss of vision 5/2010 in L eye. Normal IOC pressures,
although on high normal side. No MD commented about any
optic nerve changes. Extensive medical workup. Partial loss
of vision in R eye 12/2010, set off new work up. June 2011
diagnosed glaucoma. I have >50% VF loss L & about
15% in R eye. Optic nerves cupping & some notching not
sure of the exact amount. IOC 23 L & 19 R, week before
diagnosis, 19 & 20. Also have other visual symptoms,
scintillating patterns & vibrating of horizontal &
vertical lines which is constant in peripheral vision. Vision
loss is near center. I also have some neuro symptoms which
while minor are worsening. I am worried about losing more
of my vision, frustrated with the uncertainty of it all.
Personal bio: Very happily married
for 27+yrs. My husband & 2 daughters are what keep me
okay, my new granddaughter has brought me so much joy in
just her 8 wks of life.
Hobbies:
Exercising, knitting, crocheting, reading, spending time
with friends and most importantly my family
Last Update: June 18, 2011 |
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Anna
Born: August 1951
Residence: Mexico
Glaucoma Type: Open-angle glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 51
Glaucoma History: Mother had glaucoma...I suspected I might have it for some time, but wasnīt sure. I am also near sighted since I was fourteen...First Dr. I saw told me I canīt have a glaucoma because of this..thanks to Vivian and the information she sent me..I change a Dr..he told me I have demage in the optic nerve in both my eyes....He prescribe me Timolol Meticel and Xalatan...I am talking them regulary...donīt want to take any chances...determind to overcome it...
have to boys (21 and 23) I will make them to have a check up too next time they are home on vacation.(since they are now at the university far from home and refuse to go to make a check up).
hobbies:husband,yoga (still not sure if to continue doing it),painting,traveling (makes difficult with the drops),walking, vegetarian (eat fish),laughing........people in general
Career: Teacher
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asd (Dave)
Born: 1952
Glaucoma Type: Open-angle
Age diagnosed: 50
Glaucoma History: 2002 had .7 cup to disc and the ALT took me from 23 down to 14-15. When it needs fixing again, I want to do the Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty. I missed a few boxes on the new vision machine but the old one showed black away from center. Can see fine.
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atwoodangel (Joan)
Born: September 1942
Residence: Atwood Lake, Ohio
Glaucoma Type: Primary Open-angle glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 44
Glaucoma History: This journey began with the realization that I could not see the entire television screen which sent me scurrying to my eye dr. Sent me on to a specialist at a Cleveland hospital who sent me to another. Finally I was presented with the good news/bad news; a diagnosis of glaucoma, bad news, but the good news was supposed to be "we can control this and keep it from progressing to your other eye. WRONG. Had the usual meds which brought down the pressure but sight loss continued. Two laser surgeries in both eyes which held me for a few years. Then 3 years ago trabs in both eye and new lenses to correct the growing cataracts. I have about half of my vision left. Pressure stabilized but four months ago rt. eye dropped to 2 and vision became terrible. Three weeks ago underwent trab revision but no improvement thus far. Now I am getting worried! (April 2003)
Career: Own our own business
Personal: Moved to our "summer home" a little over a year and got rid of lots of stress in our lives. I am semi-retired and only do the bookkeeping for our manufacturing rep agency and am enjoying it. We have three Russian Blues, Gretel, Heidi and Smokie and our dog Juliette. We have four grown children and two grandsons, Ron and Dan.
Hobbies: Gazing at our beautiful lake which is my front yard, boating, my laptop computer, and long evenings with friends and family. How good can life get?
Last update: April 2, 2003 |
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Bayou
Born: September 1962
Residence: Houma, Louisianna
Glaucoma Type: Open-angle glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 37
Glaucoma History: I went to the eye doctor in November of 2001 to see if I could get some reading glasses and they found that my IOP was 27 in both eyes. So, the doctor sent me to a specalest and he said that I have open-angle glaucoma. I was put on Lumigan drops at bed time everyday and now my IOP is 15 and 16.
Career: Landlord
Personal: Happily married with two childern 15 and a 10 year old (June 2002).
Hobbies: Sewing, playing on my computer and watching TV. |
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BeachBum
Born: April 1974
Residence: North Carolina
Glaucoma Type: POAG
Age diagnosed: 29
Glaucoma History: I have no history at all, I have never even had glasses. Started getting headaches over right eye, woke up one morning vision in my right eye was very cloudy and blurred. 7 days later I was diagnosed with glaucoma. I was immediately started on cosopt and xalatan.
Career: Office assistant
Personal: Have been married for 7 years and have a beauftiful 5 year old daughter and a 7 month old golden retreiver.
Hobbies: I love to play with our dog, hanging out at the beach as much as possible, boating, and camping. Pretty much anything outside!
Last update: |
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Bernie
Born: January 1958
Residence: Riverside, CA
Glaucoma Type: POAG
Age diagnosed: 28
Career: Disabled
Hobbies: Computers, camping, watching sports,
nascar
Last update: August 1, 2005 |
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Betsy
Born: March 1946
Residence: New York
Glaucoma Type: Open-angle glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 57
Glaucoma History: My mother had high pressure, but never investigated. Sister has glaucoma.
Personal: Married, with two sons and four granddaugters
Hobbies: Golf
Last update: July 6, 2003 |
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BillW
Born: October 1927
Residence: Fort Lauderdale
Glaucoma Type: Open-angle glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 47
Glaucoma History: First monitored at Wilmer
Eye Clinic in early 70's as a relative of a glaucoma patient,
mother. Went through gammut of meds and lasers until trabs
were required. Med free after trabs for 14yrs.
Career: Retired
Personal: Retired from GE Medical Systems
in 1976 moved from Maryland to Florida and resumed x-ray
work until final retirement..I think. Four children, one
deceased.
Hobbies: Tennis, golf,
computers, genealogy
Last update: August 31, 2005 |
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Blakk_Fly
Born: November 1973
Residence: Yuma, Arizona
Glaucoma Type: Open-angle, central retnal vein occlusion
Age diagnosed: 26
Glaucoma History: Not much till this happened.
I woke up one morning and everything in my right eye was blurry. Doctor said I sufferd from a Central Retnial Vein Occlusion (RVO). I currently use Alphagan and Timoptex XE. I only live 14 miles from Mexico, So I buy my drops across the Border. Much cheaper.
Career: College student
Hobbies: Befor this happend I was an Established Billiard Player, Any Game. I still play and I for the most part Im still just as good. In fact the game almost seems eaiser. Just a matter of trust. |
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BlueeyedFancy
Born: September, 1948
Residence: Frederick, Maryland
Glaucoma Type: Open-angle
Age diagnosed: 38
Glaucoma History: In 86 while stationed in Germany, I was considered a glaucoma suspect with IOP of 22 in each eye. Remained that way for years. Tried eye drops, but was unable to tolerate them. Went 10 yrs without any meds. In 97 was told I should have argon laser to protect my good optic nerves. It was like having my eye fried, and it made me so sick, that I didn't want to ever go through that again. I waited 4 yrs to begin eye drops again, but they wouldn't keep the IOP down, and some I couldn't tolerate. Recently, in 2004 I've been told that I have early glaucoma now with optic nerve damage. This past year I've had 2 SLT laser surgeries on my right eye and half of my left eye. It seems to have my right eye under control and my left eye will probably get the other half done soon. God has been good to me in that if I had to have glaucoma He gave me very thick corneas of 630 in each eye. Specialist claim this is what has protected my optic nerve all these years without having done anything to them. However, my right eye is borderline, having damage of 40 percent now. So I will probably have a trabeculectomy in the near future. My left eye nerve is in the abnormal range. So I see more surgeries there also. My visual fields are still in normal range, and I see 20/20 in each eye. My damage seemed to occur rather rapidly, which makes me nervous. I never wore glasses until 2 years ago, and only wear them for distance, or reading. While on the computer or doing housework, I don't wear them. I feel that God and prayers are keeping my eyesight, but I fear that at only 55 yrs of age, that I may see further deterioation, since my pressures have really never been under control. I have read eveyone's bio under my category of glaucoma and I feel so blessed that my eyesight is still as good as it is... I'm afraid to 'overthink' about what it all means.. and yet feel fortunate, after reading everyone's bio's that so far I've been VERY lucky. There is no history of glaucoma in my family, but at the age of 30, in 1978, my older sister had complete retinal detachment in both her eyes, and the surgeon could not save her one eye, and she sees 40 percent out of the other eye. Just a couple months ago, my brother who is 53 had a sudden retinal tear which he underwent surgery for, and it is still healing, but his vision is not the same, so eye problems are in my family. My younger sister who is 45, says she feels like her turn is coming.
Career: Retired Military Spouse
Personal: I am grateful that while I was young I got to travel and see Europe and beautiful places in the USA, while living in the Army. I try to think positively about having glaucoma. It didn't phase me when I first learned I might develop it and for over 20 yrs I hardly thought about it. But now with an aggressive form of glaucoma, I look longer at the sunsets and try to read more and more, and watch more movies... I don't want to take anything for granted anymore, like being able to see, as I once did. I only hope that I don't pass the gene to my daughters and grandchildren. I keep after them to all go and get checked by a specialist. I tell everyone now how important it is to be checked... and keep getting checked. I'd like to find folks that want and need encouragement like I do... :-)
Hobbies: I'm an avid reader. Surfing the web and researching my interests takes alot of my time. I'm learning to do intricate beading, which has turned me into a beadaholic. Having overnight pj parties with my small grandsons. Photography is a passion, and I like to write as well. Trying to get more into daily regular exercise. I read that doing an semi-aerobic exercise for 40 min 4 days a week can lower your IOP quite a bit. I'll try anything at this point. I only wish they considered chocolate a medication.
Last update: May 5, 2004 |
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Bluemax
Residence: Michigan
Glaucoma Type: POAG
Age diagnosed: 46
Glaucoma History: Went for eye exam, pressure
check showed 24/25 in both eyes, referred to ophthalmologist.
Put on Xalatan to bring pressure down, field test subsequently
showed scotoma with some vision loss in left eye only. Added
Brimonidine (Alphagan) as second medication, but caused irritation
so I was taken off it. Now just Xalatan and last eye pressure
10-2005 was 12/13 in both eyes. My grandmother was legally
blind when she died, but don't know if it was Glaucoma. Have
learned a lot via Internet and Wills chat room.
Hobbies: Golf. Many others too, but golf
is #1. I have a 5 handicap and want to do all I can to prevent/delay
progression so I can continue to play at this level.
Last update: December 1, 2005 |
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Cajunlady88
Born: August 1951
Residence: Louisiana
Glaucoma Type: open-angle glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 37
Glaucoma History: High eye pressure discovered at routine eye exam, I am near-sighted and was getting an eye exam for glasses. They did not want to start treatment but I wanted them too. I finally got my way. I still have no damage detected thus far. But the pressure is up in my right eye... which has always been somewhat higher, but I believe it's my fault... skipped doses except last 2 before exam. Doctor suggested laser treatment... but I found NEW laser treatments on the web which can be repeated over and over... don't want to mess that up with an old laser treatment. I am trying exercise and keeping up my medication properly to get my IOP down.
Career: Quality Control
Personal: I work full time as a QA Tech in a food plant. I have a 22 year old son and a very sweet daughter-in-law and a 6 month old granddaughter. I have a Rat Terrier for a pet and my son has an APBT. I am 52 years old.
Hobbies: Hummm, actually don't have any. I would sure like to meet folks sharing the same condition as me!
Last update: December, 17, 2003 |
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CaringCon (Constance
)
Born: November 1935
Residence: Middlesex, NJ
Glaucoma Type: Open angle
Age diagnosed: 61
Glaucoma History: I was diagnosed with open angle glaucoma in December 1996, with some vision loss in the left eye. After being on drops for two years, laser was tried and failed. Xalatan was added to my regimen in 1998. In May 2000 I went to Wills for my second consultation when my drops no longer were keeping the pressure down. I had a trab Nov. 27, 2000, and am hoping this works. Last pressure reading was 11. The right eye continues to be doing well.
Career: Retired teacher
Personal: I am a retired teacher and widow. I am one of seven children, five of whom are on drops for glaucoma. I am the only one who has not responded to laser and drops. My youngest brother (53) and youngest sister (54) were diagnosed within the last year. Guess it is in our genes. My almost 93 year old mom has used drops for years with success. I hoped to be that lucky when diagnosed, but it was not to be. It sure is a scary disease.
Hobbies: Bowling, walking for exercise
and mental well being...computer and reading, when I make the time.
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chaskjr
Born: December 1934
Glaucoma Type: Open-angle glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 53
Glaucoma History: Started with timoptic .25 (blue) both eyes twice daily. Switched to xaltan when pressure became elevated. Xaltan gave foreign body sensation. Switched to timoptic .5 (Yellow) in right eye and tru-sopt in left. Switched to timoptic .5 in both eyes due to field in left eye worsening. Switched to co-sopt in right eye and am using that in right eye along with timoptic .5 in left.
Career: Retired
Last update: April 12, 2003
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Chef John
Born: 1962
Residence: Bar Harbor Maine
Glaucoma Type: POAG
Age diagnosed: 33
Glaucoma History: Went blind in L eye at age 12, cause unknown (optic neuritus??). Vision returned 6 months later. Leaky trab done Nov 2000, revised Dec, pressure of 2 after surgery, developed folds in the retina. Trab revised again March 2001, pulled stiches and had another revision at Boston Eye Surgery & Laser Center where they put a graft over most of the bleb. Pressure up slightly but vision still poor.
Career: Chef
Hobbies: Kayaking, hiking, camping, antiques, foraging for wild mushrooms and cooking.
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Cheryl48601
Born: January 1954
Residence: Saginaw, MI
Glaucoma Type: Open-angle glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 48
Glaucoma History: In August 2002 diagnosed with Open-Angle Glaucoma in right-eye with at trace loss of sight in the field vision test.
Have had laser treatment on the right-eye and also had trabs surgery in August 2006. It is now closed and I need surgery again. Was diagnosed with Glaucoma in left eye in September 2006. Optic nerve on the right is very damaged, and I have always put my drops in like the doctors have told me. At this time my vision is 20/100 blurry and the field vision is bad only and upper pie that I can see. Left eye is 20/40 no loss on field vision and the optic nerve is good. At present I am using Cospot 2 times a day, Allaghan P 3 times a day in the right eye and Lumigan once at bedtime in both eyes. The pressure on October 3, 2007 was 14 in my left eye and 25 in my right. The doctor also says that I am probably allegic to the drops because my eyes are red most of the time.
Personal: I have been married to my husband just less than a year. I am the mother of a 23 year old daughter and the step-mother of an 18 year old son and 14 year old daughter. No one that I know of in my family has every had glaucoma, but my mother passed away at age 46 and always had bad eye sight. I have worn glasses since I was in the 5th grade which is 10 or 11 years old for near sightedness.
Hobbies: I have lots of hobbies. And like I read in someone else Bio I am trying to live life to its fullest and see everything that I can see. I love to camp, sew, crafts, read(but not so much anymore)and work in the yard and around the house.
Last Update: October 24, 2007
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Cindy T.
Born: April 1965
Residence: New Jersey
Glaucoma Type: Open-angle
Age diagnosed: 33
Glaucoma History: I am using Timoptic XE & Xalatan. When diagnosed, pressures were 40 in the right eye & 30 in the left.
Career: Teacher
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Clancy
Born: 1943
Residence: Arkansas
Glaucoma Type: Open-angle glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 60
Glaucoma History: After seeing the second
doctor it was confirmed the first doctor was correct with
his diagnosis. I had been concerned about side effects from
Xalatan, new doctor switched me to Lumigan and I have been
much happier with it. Fewer side effects, still have dark
around the eyes and LONG eye lashes.Have lost pheriphal
in both eyes, more in one than the other but still good
central vision. Worry alot about what is to come, even though
there is nothing I can do about it.
Career: Retired
Personal: Life has changed alot in the
last yr and a half. Have lost 55 lbs..which I needed to
desperately..but am still losing and no longer need to.
I try to read as much as I can now and stay home more than
I ever did. Seems I am just more at peace here.
Hobbies: Gardening,
decorating, pet poodle.
Last update: October 3, 2004
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Claudie
Born: October 1932
Residence: Los Angeles, CA
Glaucoma Type: Open-angle glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 61
Glaucoma History: Have tried all the drops, allergies. Then tried xalatan, extreme burning developed, and a change in the color of the iris (which I do not care at all.) Stopped to rest awhile, now on lumigan, we will see; the pressure has been at 11.
Career: Artist
Hobbies: My art, computer, volunteer in many places, learning Spanish, my own private meal on wheels....and....!
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Claudio
Born: February 1965
Residence: Hialeah, FL
Glaucoma Type: POAG
Age diagnosed: 17
Glaucoma History: I have worn glasses most of my life. When I was 17, my pressures were checked and were 36 in each eye!! That started 19 years of treatments so far. I have been on all types of drops and had lasers twice. I am using xalatan and betagan at the moment. Have been ok for several years, with pressures in the low 20's. I worry sometimes, but my wife and two children keep my mind busy. I just thank God everyday that I can still see!!
Career: Special education teacher
Personal: I was born in Canton, Ohio and have lived in Hialeah, Florida for over 20 years. I am very happily married and have two beautiful children.
Hobbies: I love silent movies!! I have several on video with Charlie Chaplin, Buster Keaton, Lillian Gish, and so on. This is my passion.
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Cotton Candy (Sheri B.)
Born: April 1961
Residence: Camden, SC
Glaucoma Type: Open Angle
Age diagnosed: 34
Glaucoma History: I have tried all of the eyedrops except pilocarpine. I have had allergic reactions and or no iop lower effect at all. I am currently in the process of laser therapy.
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Dakine
Born: January 1948
Residence: Pleasant Hill, CA
Glaucoma Type: Open-angle glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 57
Glaucoma History: My pressure in both eyes was at 22 when I was
diagnosed. With eye drops it dropped to 12 in both eyes and went up to
19 in both eyes.
Personal: Single male, working for a mortgage company.
Prior to that local phone company for 21 years.
Hobbies: In my spare time I enjoy working in my garden, which
I also have a pond and swimming pool. Used to belong to a bowling league
which met every Friday evening after work.
Last Update: October 9, 2007
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Dashorn
ICQ, AIM, Yahoo, or MSM number:
LewesH
Residence: Delaware
Birth: July 1931
Glaucoma Type: Open-angle glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 42
Glaucoma History:
After diagnosis took no medicines until 12 years later.
Participated in Wilmer Eye Clinic (Johns Hopkins Hospital)
Glaucoma study under Dr. Al Sommer. IN 2001 began taking
prostaglandins. IOP OS 23 and OD 25. VF now show damage
both eyes. Considering either SLT or ALT. Not sure which
is more destructive to pigmented tissue although I have
fair skin and I assume, trabecular meshwork. Wilmer suggests
ALT but I an tending more to SLT.
Personal: Retired naval Officer and JHU
Engineer.
Hobbies: (french honr), civic memberships,
overseas travel
Last Update: December 20, 2009 |
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Diane
Born: August 1957
Residence: Northern California
Glaucoma Type: Open-angle
Career: Program coordinator
for organic teaching farm
Age diagnosed: 45
Glaucoma History: I have glaucoma and
cataracts in both eyes, both are worse in the right eye.
My regular glauc doc recommends trabeculectomy (1/07), I
went for a 2nd opinion to glauc doc at Stanford who didn\'t
feel that was needed at this point. I have been on eye drops
since I was diagnosed 2/02. I am currently on Co-sopt 2x
a day, Lumigan 1x, Brimonidine 3x. I had SLT on both halves
of my right eye and one half of my left eye in 2004/2005,
with little result (done by past opthamologist). I have
really appreciated this site and the chat room - knowledge
helps relieve my anxiety about becoming blind at a young
age (I'll always think I'm young - even when I'm 90!)
Personal: Single, no children, find my
work very enjoyable and fulfilling. Previously worked in
the nonproft / social services world which I also enjoyed.
Hobbies: Love the outdoors, hiking, gardening -
especially natives, fruits and veggies - enjoy unique and
antique varieties. Home repair / improvement (which is very
helpful if one is trying to afford a home in California!).
Last update: February 16, 2007 |
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Dnlsn (Daniel)
Born: February 1968
Residence: Illinois
Glaucoma Type: Open-angle glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 29
Glaucoma History: Found out at age 29 that I had Primary Open Angle glaucoma. By the time it was discovered I had already lost 60% of the sight in my right eye and only about 20% in the left. I've had one trabeculectomy in my right eye but it didnt take. Am waiting for surgery again, this time, both eyes. (Feb. 2003)
Personal: I'm 34 yrs old, divorced with 3 great kids.
Hobbies: I enjoy organic gardening, landscaping and generally anything that gives me the chance to be outdoors.
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Earl
Born: March 1945
Residence: Alabama
Glaucoma Type: Open-angle glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 50
Glaucoma History: My mother was totally blind from glaucoma damage at age 75. She underwent 7 eye sugeries, and 8 different eye drops. Her sister was blinded by glaucoma. I, among 10 siblings have inhereted this disease. Have been diagnosed for 10 years. Now, At age 57, have had 2 laser eye surgeries. Pressure reading on Feb. 20, 2003 is 24-25. Vision Field is normal. Some damage to optic nerve.
Career: Retired
Personal: Married 37 years. One 35 year old son. Retired School Teacher 6 years.
Hobbies: Reading, Event planning, singing, dancing. |
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Eileen
Born: January 1947
Residence: Watervliet NY
Glaucoma Type: Primary open angle
Age diagnosed: 25
Glaucoma History: Bo
Career: I have just had surgery for a macular hole, and it
caused my pressure to go to 50. I just had a trab done. I don't know anyone
who has had one. My pressure is now 22 in the left. 14 in the right.
Personal: I have been married for 40 years. I have 2
adult daughters. One has high IOP. I have 2 cats, that are my best buddies
right now. I am a teacher Assist.
Hobbies: I love to travel. Do crosswords, when I can
see, and be with my nieces and nephews.
Last Update: June 30, 2007
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Ellen
Born: January 1938
Glaucoma Type: Open-angle
Age diagnosed: 56
Glaucoma History: Laser in each eye,
glaucoma in each eye,
cataract in each eye
Career: Bookeeper
Personal: My only health problem so far is glaucoma
Hobbies: Reading, movies, walking, theatre, grand
children, and I work full time |
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Easy 37
Born: April 1937
Residence: McCormick SC
Career: logistics department management functions 34 years
Glaucoma Type: Open-angle glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 49
Glaucoma History: I have been bothered for several years by the formation of a cataract in my
left eye. My glaucoma specialist advised me to hang on in the event
glaucoma surgery might also be indicated. He told me it would be best
to do both procedures at the same time. By early December the vision in
the affected eye had deteriorated to a point where corrective lenses were
not much help. A thorough exam showed a continued
stable glaucoma situation, with good pressures, so cataract surgery was
done one January 2, 2003. Part of the pre-op included extensive evaluation
of my corneas, since my Mother had many problems with her corneas. (She is
almost 90 and recently had her 7th transplant.) This study was done in the
event additional precautions were needed during the cataract
surgery. Fortunately all was well in this regard. The surgery took 19
minutes. I was aware of what was going on but of course felt nothing. The
day after surgery my pressure was 18 and I saw 20/30. In addition to the
Pred Forte drops and an antibiotic I used Timolol twice a day to control
pressure. The doctor believe Xalatan, my regular evening drop would be
too inflammatory.
A week later I saw 20/25 but my pressure rose to 26, so I was put back on
Xalatan in the evening and continued the Timolol in the am. An evaluation
a week later (Jan 17) the pressure in both eyes read 14 and I saw 20/20
in the affected eye. Thus I can say so far great!!!!!!!!!!
The surgeon is Dr. Gokhale who is also my glaucoma specialist and was
performed at the Medical College of Georgia Hospital.
I can't say enough good things about the preparation, attention to detail
and follow up care received
by the folks at this facility. There is an obvious advantage to having
a fine Glaucoma Specialist who is also a good surgeon. Dr. Gokhale also
told me he used an eye numbing procedure for the surgery the did not affect
the optic nerve due to my having glaucoma.
Personal: Born and raised in Philadelphia. Attended parochial schools through high school. Graduated from Villanova in 1959 with B.S Economics. Served in U.S. Navy as a commissioned officer, 1959 to 1962. Then for 34 years in Logistics Management for a mojor food company in various U.S. Locations. Retired 1997. Married 41years, 4 children and 9 grandchildren.
Hobbies: Golf, boating, piano. Community Service - Voluntary school tutor,
active on Church Pastoral Council. Trying to be a good husband, father and grandad. |
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Emily
Born: December 1939
Personal Webpage: http://members.aol.com/e5patch/index.html
Residence: Portland, OR
Glaucoma Type: Open-angle glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 63
Glaucoma History: I have been a glaucoma suspect for five years, since my brother developed it.
Career: Retired teacher
Personal: My great grandfather and great aunt both went blind from glaucoma, but that was in the 1880's and before medication. My paternal aunt had glaucoma and was treated. My only sibling, my brother, developed it at 52.
My pressure had been in the low 20's. There is no optic nerve damage.
Recently, I flunked a visual field test, in my right eye. My pressure has gone to 26 and 27. My opthamologist decided it was time for my to take Xalotan. I have been taking it for several months. The pressure in my right eye is down to 18 and 17 in my left.
My vision is 20/40, corrected to 20/20 with glassed. I started wearing glasses ten years ago. I am 63 years old.
I waa surprised. I had always heard about my great grandfather & great aunt.
Feel confident that medication will keep it in check. It did so with my aunt and my brother.
Hobbies: I enjoy reading & travel.
I have two dogs, six cats & two birds. I am devoted to my animal companions & would like to foster care a homeless pet.
I have a twenty-five year old daughter who lives close by.
Currently, I am studying Spanish. |
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Enmuffins
Born: April 1927
Residence: Canary Islands
Glaucoma Type: Open-angle
Age diagnosed: 64
Glaucoma History: I have had laser trabecular treatments on both eyes (twice) and an iridotomy on one eye once. This was about 10 years ago. For the last few years I have used Xalatan once daily and just recently have added Timotec also once daily. I find the Timotec bothers my eyes and am wondering if it has preservatives in it as I am allergic to thymerosol.
I also have ocular migraine which is getting more frequent recently.
I am in the Canary Islands but have had the Heidelberg Retina Tomograph II done just a few months ago. There is some optic nerve damage and my opthamologist is keeping track of that.
Career: Retired school teacher
Personal: I recently was diagnosed as hypothyroid - TSH 9.5 and Free T4 0.74 - so am taking Synthroid (25 mcg daily) I feel that I was hypothyroid for many years but in the past the docs said I was borderline and did not medicate me. Since being on the Synthroid I have much more energy.
I go back to the US every couple of years and get tests done that are not thought to be necessary over here.
I am otherwise fairly healthy and enjoying life.
Hobbies: Surfing the net, IMing my grandchildren, Reading and Graphology.
Last update: June 1, 2004 |
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Faye
Born: September 1950
Residence: Seattle
Glaucoma Type: POAG
Age diagnosed: 47
Glaucoma History: Having had 20/15 vision all my life, I was shocked to learn, at age 47, that I had glaucoma with pressures in the high 20s and, in the right eye, some optic nerve damage and reduced visual field. I've been treated with meds, trabeculoplasty (laser) and, in the right eye, trabeculectomy (surgery). My pressures are near target levels but not quite there, and visual fields have been stable for 2 years. The biggest problem for me in glaucoma treatment has been CNS reactions (depression, spaciness) on some of the meds.
Career: Software - Programmer & Project Manager (retired)
Hobbies: My passion is writing and I edit a monthly newsletter. Currently enjoying boating with my husband. I have a big vegetable garden.
Personal: Married, one teenage daughter. M.A., University of Michigan
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futuresuccess
Residence: Philadelphia
Birth: December 1955
Glaucoma Type: Open angle glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 42
Glaucoma History:
As I child I was hit in the eyes several times by my parents,
the most severe was when my stepfather threw a glass ashtray
and it hit me just over my left eye leaving a deep gash
that required 13 stitches to close and left me with headaches
and diminished vision in my left eye. Many years later I
went to a vision center because I was having trouble seeing
things at a distance. The optometrist informed me that I
was suspect for developing glaucoma. Ten years after that
I went to Wills Eye Hospital in Philadelphia and learned
that I did have glaucoma and had suffered vision loss in
my left eye. Several years of treatment and visual field
examines I just had laser surgery, trabeculotomy performed
on my left eye, and I expect to have it performed again
on Monday, February 15th 2010. I am willing to do whatever
is needed to maintain the vision I have left in both of
my eyes, but I also believe that God is in control of my
fate.
Personal: I am a optimistic extroverted
54 year old mother of two beautiful daughters, Shandara,
34 and Indonesia, 30. I am married to my wonderful husband
Robert and together have 10 grandchildren, we are the proud
parents of Precious, our 2 year old pitbull, and Tiger,
our 3 year old tabby cat, both of whom we resuced from our
local SPCA. I am a mental health therapist at NHS in Philadelphia
at GRC which is a community for individuals with co-occuring
disorders an MR. I love my job so much that I have decided
to take it to another level by enrolling in University of
Phoenix's online class to get my master's in psychology.
I have plans to continue my education and get my phD in
behavioral health. In my spare time I love doing crossword
puzzles both online and I have a subscription, I love all
kinds of music, R&B and gospel are my favorites, but
I have been known to listen to a little Guns and Roses,
Axle is my favorite. I love cooking and eating good foods,
I sing on the choir at my church and at GRC. I am a facebook
follower, kinggames.com member, I love to take long walks
just to enjoy a brisk fall day, or cool spring morning,
I am a people person and I love meeting new people, and
last but not least, I am a lifetime learner.
Hobbies:
I love living life to the fullest and I take each day as
a new opportunity to do something that will help another
to overcome life's little setbacks.
Last Update: February, 2010 |
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EileenW
Born: January 1947
Residence: Watervliet, NY
Glaucoma Type: Open-angle
Age diagnosed: 25
Glaucoma History: I have had several different medications to help control my glaucoma. Now I use Xalatan.
Career: Teacher-aide
Personal: Married with 2 adult children. Both have normal eye pressure. Three siblings. l have normal eye pressure. I was diagnosed 10 years before my mother was.
Hobbies: Traveling and doing crossword puzzles
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Darrell
Born: July 1959
Residence: Columbus, Ohio
Glaucoma Type: Primary Open Angle Glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 21
Glaucoma History: I was diganosed with OPAG
in 1980, I had two Trabs one in 1988 and another in 1992;
with a bleb in each eye. I'm now legally blind in both eyes.
Career: I'm a US Army Veteran, I have three
college degrees: AAS Restaurant MGT, BS Human Resource MGT,
MS ORganization & Management.
Personal: I'm currenty trying to gain
competitive employment in Human Resources.
Hobbies: Reading, cooking, watching sports
on TV, learning how to play the piano.
Last Update: June 8, 2007
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George G.
Born: August 1933
Residence: New Hampshire
Glaucoma Type: Open angle
Year diagnosed: 1992
Glaucoma History: Elevated IOP, glaucoma suspect 1992. Began medical therapy in 1994 with betoptic pressure in low twenties. Switched to timoptic, .5% in 1995 (pressure 20). Added xalatan 1996 (pressure low twenties). Nov 1999, added alphagan(presure mid teens). Most recent exam Jan 2001 (have had exams every 6 months since diagnosis. Pressure 17 left and 19 right. Some field loss. Also have epiretinal membrane (macullar pucker) left eye with resultant diplopia.
Career: Retired teacher
Personal: Married, two adult children, one grandchild. College grad. Air Force navigator 1955-1963. Retired high school history teacher. Live in rural NH. Hospital volunteer in critical care waiting room at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, NH
Hobbies: Gardening, woodworking, reading, travel. Member of Experimental Aircraft Association.
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Gerri
Born: April 1954
Residence: Gorham, NH
Glaucoma Type: Open-angle
Age diagnosed: 42
Career: RN
Last update: October 15, 2004 |
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GFunk
Born: April 1924
Residence: Montana
ICQ: Cybernet
Glaucoma Type: Primary open-angle glaucoma
Age diagnosed: 76
Glaucoma History: Opthamologist kept track
of the pressure in my eyes until it became evident medication
should be started. I am writing because I read several statements
that "I could not tolerate the eye drops." I wonder
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