Preparing for Cataract Surgery

I've known this was coming for quite a while.

I first noticed it, while sitting in the sanctuary of Christ Church listening to the Gospel being read on a Sunday morning. The nave spotlights had developed halos. Later, after retirement, when driving in the evening, the oncoming car headlights developed halos and even auras.

Finally, my Wayne, NJ, ophthamologist confirmed that I had developed a dense cataract in my left eye and that the right eye was not far behind. She recommended that I find a local ophthamologist to take over my care and especially the after-care.

I'm now committed to having the cataract in the left eye removed and a lens implanted on June 9th. The steps leading up to this have been interesting.

Today, for instance, I had my eyeballs measured to determine what correction the implant would provide. The procedure was done using sonar -- a small cylinder was placed on the eyeball, filled with an aqueous solution which conducted the sonar impulses to determine the size. After getting that reading and measuring the astigmatism in each eye, the physician has determined what corrective strength to use.

This test was followed by one to determine the topography of the cornea. The resultant "map" will also help determine how much astigmatism can be eliminated.

This preparation has helped reduce the apprehension level a good bit. Some remains, of course, with which I have to deal. My eyesight is important, even precious. I am putting my faith and trust in the hands of a capable surgeon and praying for success for both of us.

More to come, later....