Dr Murray and Mr. Persad shared with us on the benefits of eye care and the importance of being proactive in how we take care of our eyes especially as we get older.
Raising Eye Care Awareness

 

Our guest speaker was introduced by Rtn Marie. Dr Murray, Lecturer in Opthalmology in UWI spoke of the need for advocacy so that resources could be equitably distributed.  She pointed out that vulnerable people need advocacy so that health care services are accessible. Dr Murray then introduced her colleague Mr Bhwani Persad of PARVI as someone who demonstrated that adult onset blindness need not be limiting. Mr Persad is the administrator for blind cricket in the WI and Vice President of the TT disabilities council.  He invited RCOM to join the Walk for Sight around the Savannah on Sat 13 October - $100 for adults and $50 range of events till 3pm.

 

Mr Persaud also invited RCOM to the PARVI fundraiser at Cascadia Nov 20th tickets $300, 6203776. He said eye treatment is important to safeguard sight but blindness for adult is the beginning of a new adventure. Dr Murray answered question on Glaucoma. She explained that this is optic nerve damage and it is important to have eyes checked regularly especially if you have a family history or are over 30. Glaucoma cannot be ‘cured’ but it can be stabilised so as to arrest deterioration. Mr Persad  spoke of PARVI and other associations to help people adjust to blindness. This includes counselling for person and family. It was advised that once should heck at birth, during primary school, at the end of primary, once or twice a year into your 20s for any eye defects.

 

Rtn Helen gave the vote of thanks and reminded us not to take vision for granted. Rtn Lera also pinned Dr Murray and Mr Persad.

 

Present with us also were our Assistant Governor Gordon Paul and our Rotaract President Renee Bailey.

 

We thank you Dr. Murray and Mr. Persad for your dedication and resilience.