Two very cool things are going on in Tampa Bay during October. The first is my birthday. I will be another year older and, hopefully, wiser. The second (and probably more important) is that thousands of eye doctors and vision specialists are coming to St. Pete and Tampa from all over the world to discuss the most current vision science research and patient care.
These specialists are coming to our community to attend two major meetings. The first one, held at the Vinoy in St. Petersburg, is the annual meeting for the College of Optometrists in Visual Development. This is the premier organization for doctors who treat visual problems in children and provide vision therapy. I have been deeply involved with this organization since Optometry school. It is wonderful because it is made up of energetic doctors and vision therapists who deeply care about their patients.
The other meeting, held at the Tampa convention center, is the annual meeting of the American Academy of Optometry. This huge meeting presents the very latest research in all aspects of visual science: from infant vision to glaucoma management to contact lens advances.
Two of the most exciting areas that I am looking forward to are myopia (nearsightedness) control and orthokeratology (Precise Corneal Reshaping), topics that I have have long had an interest in.
Now, I realize that not everyone is going to get as excited as I am about these two meetings, but consider this: almost every other attendee had to pack a suitcase, fly or drive all day, and stay in a hotel. I, on the other hand, was able to attend committee meetings and lectures during the day and while eating dinner with my family and sleeping in my own bed at night. And, to me, that is a great birthday present!
Be well!
Nathan Bonilla-Warford, OD
Bright Eyes Family Vision Care
Located in the Westchase area of Tampa.
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