St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton Saved Sandy's Sight
Monday, March 10 2014, Hamilton ON - Sandy Schweyer, a 55 year-old resident of east Hamilton, was like any other individual going for their annual check-up at the Optometrist; however she came out with news that changed her life. After receiving a Tonometry test, a comprehensive glaucoma exam (a test also known as the puff of air in your eye), it was then her doctor told her that she could have glaucoma and that she would need to see a specialist right away.
“For years, nothing with my eye sight had changed; no differences with my vision, no pain or pressure. If I had not received that test I wouldn’t have known I had glaucoma,” said Sandy Schweyer. “It was then that I was sent to the Hamilton Regional Eye Institute at St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton’s King Campus.”
“Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide, yet 90% can be prevented,” explained Dr. Enitan Sogbesan, Glaucoma Specialist at the Hamilton Regional Eye Institute at St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton’s King Campus. “Glaucoma is a group of eye diseases that damages the optic nerve and can destroy eyesight. Unfortunately, nearly half of those with glaucoma are not even aware that they have it.”
Early detection, through education and regular and complete eye exams, is the key to protecting one’s vision from damage caused by glaucoma.
In honour of Glaucoma Awareness Week (March 9-15), St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton is hosting a free education session for the community on March 12th. The session will provide information about glaucoma and how to protect your eyes.
“Dr. Sogbesan saved my sight - I am not exaggerating! After the eye drops no longer worked for me, I decided to have surgery at St. Joe’s this past year and I am so grateful to be able to continue my life with clear vision,” said Sandy Schweyer. “I tell people whenever I get the chance, always get your glaucoma test. This quick eye test is so important to our everyday life.”
WHEN: Wednesday, March 12, 2014
6:30 – 8:00 p.m.
WHERE: Kemp Auditorium,
King Campus, 2757 King Street East, Hamilton
WHO: Dr. Enitan Sogbesan, Glaucoma Specialist
Additional: Admission is free.
To register please contact, 905.522.1155 ext. 38311 or
To view the full media release, please click here.
Public Affairs Associate,
Public Affairs Department,
St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton
905.522.1155 ext. 33423
lwhelan@stjoes.ca