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Eye Exam Saves Woman’s Life by Detecting Brain Tumor Early

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Most people don't think a regular eye exam could save their life. But the truth is that in many cases, a comprehensive eye exam can detect much more than eye disease. 

That's one reason that we at Giddens Optometry in Georgetown recommend annual eye exams to all of our patients, even in the absence of visual changes or symptoms. Read on to find out how a routine trip to the optometrist helped preserve Katie Dunn's vision and life! 

How an Eye Exam Saved Katie's Life

Katie Dunn, a 30-year old beautician, visited her local eye doctor for a routine eye exam. During the exam, the optometrist noticed certain abnormalities in the back of her eye. Based on these findings, he recommended that she go for an MRI scan. 

The MRI results displayed a large tumor that had been growing in her brain and pressing on her optic nerve. After two surgeries to remove the tumor and radiotherapy treatments, Katie is grateful to be doing well!

Katie's doctors and surgeons explained that, had the tumor gone undetected, she could have lost her vision completely and suffered other potentially life-changing health problems. 

How Eye Exams Can Detect Other Health Problems

During a comprehensive eye exam, your optometrist may use special dilating drops to widen your pupils, allowing for a better look at the back of your eyes. This can help detect a wide range of problems, including brain [tumors]. [Tumors] located in the brain can often cause changes in the blood vessels of the eyes, and these changes can be detected during a dilated eye exam.

Regular eye exams can also help detect other medical conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and, more rarely, certain types of cancer. Early detection of these conditions can lead to prompt treatment and better outcomes.

Eye Exams and Other Eye Care Services in Georgetown

If it's been more than a year since your last visit to the optometrist, we urge you to call Giddens Optometry to schedule your routine appointment. 

Regular eye exams are a crucial part of keeping your eyes healthy and maintaining overall health, so don't delay. Call Giddens Optometry in Georgetown today!

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a3ef93d0 34de 453f b5f4 5ffd895a5f85 (1)A Letter from Dr. Ben Giddens

Hello friends, I have retired!

I had 37 years of good fun in Georgetown and loved the gift of meeting so many warm and friendly people! I am very sorry that I didn’t have the time to chat with everyone about my exact plans, and felt guilty over that at times. It was not an easy task. If anyone wants, or needs to contact me, please send an email to my office and I will reply.

I am 66 years old and still feel like I am in good health. My wife died of cancer in 2021 but I have good friends and family and a fun life. I recently moved back to Toronto which is where I grew up as a teenager. I have an active outdoor life and have many ski trips and travel plans in front of me. Lots of interests and activities to explore with an overriding sense that I am a lucky guy. I am also a grandfather now.

I have always tried to employ staff and optometrists who have a heart. I think that is where the office is at today and I hope it continues. Everyone knows their work, and the heart matters.

Ben.