Today marks my one-year anniversary post ICL surgery and the word that has been circulating in my head today is thankful. So, to help better describe why, let’s start from the top. I first got glasses in 2nd grade when my teachers noticed that I was getting up from my desk to read the markerboard. My vision kept getting worse every year, with my prescription eventually getting to -9.5. The way I described that to people was that I couldn’t see “The Big E” in eye exams. Due to my prescription getting worse each year I was told I wouldn’t be a candidate for surgery, but I wasn’t ready to give up on that as a possibility.
So, I dove into learning more about how nutrition can improve functions in your body in hopes of helping my eyesight… and it worked!! I was able to keep my prescription steady for 3 years!!! So, I decided to seek out a surgery center and after asking friends and family for references it was a no brainer to go with The Williamson Eye Center. I scheduled a consult, and I immediately felt at ease. I was given all options and was so thankful to learn that I was a candidate for ICL Surgery.
Speaking of surgery, let’s get into it. I have had a handful of surgeries in my 26 years of life, and this was by far the easiest and most pain free surgery to date. When I say pain free, I truly mean it! I was of course a bit nervous knowing I was having surgery on my eyes, but it was so smooth from the moment I got there. From talking with the nurses, doctor, and anesthesiologist I truly felt like I had nothing to worry about.
I don’t remember anything from the surgery itself, but I do remember waking up and thinking, “Did the surgery happen?” because I wasn’t in any pain. I was a bit loopy, but after a good long nap that quickly wore off. I was skeptical when they told me during the consult that I would be able to drive myself the next day to the follow up appointment, but they were right. I can’t believe how fast the healing process was.
My main reason for having ICL surgery was for my personal safety. The risk of not being able to see was scary at times. So, when I say I’m thankful that doesn’t even begin to express the feelings I have. All my life the first thing I did in the morning was reach over and put on my glasses to start my day. There is nothing better than waking up and immediately being able to see and I will never take that for granted. I have so much peace being able to see!
Thank you to Dr. Blake Williamson and everyone at The Williamson Eye Center!
-LeeEllen Hutchinson
