Last weekend I went for an eye exam as I have been having some issues with sensitivity and because it’s been three years since my last visit. I went back to the optometrist, Dr. Maye Doldolea, I had found when we moved from Calgary. When I saw her last, I was still able to speak, walk and use my hands, all things I can no longer do. From the get go the staff were super accommodating, they allowed Cory in with me and moved around multiple machines so I could use them while sitting in my wheelchair. Believe me, not all places are so accommodating.
My appointment ended up being over an hour and I was amazed at how Dr. Maye was able to test for so many things, given my disabilities. She didn’t say, “Oh, you can’t speak so we can’t do the exam. “. Instead, she assessed what I could do (move my head up and down, side to side) and figured out how to tailor the testing procedures to match my abilities. It worked! It obviously took longer, but the doctor was thorough and patient, and not once did I feel like I was being rushed or that I was being an inconvenience. (below left is the traditional eye chart and right is the one I used at my recent appointment. I moved my head up, down, left and right to indicate which way the E was facing.)
When the doctor discussed the pressure in my eyes, due to pigment sloughing off, and how she would continue to monitor it, she gave me an unlikely gift. I have been discouraged from doing and even refused some preventative screenings, because hey, I’m dying anyway. I am keenly aware of how ALS shortens one’s life, but that doesn’t mean I should just accept the 2-5 years I have been told to expect. I know of many people who have lived with ALS for 5, 10, even 20 years, and so I will do whatever it takes to increase my chances. So, for Dr. Maye to take my eye health seriously made me feel not only “normal”, but valued. I left the appointment feeling like any other patient, and for that I am very grateful.
Hi Leanne, happy summer to you and your family. I’m guessing you are excited about hockey starting up again !
Your reflection is such a poignant reminder that ‘survival of the fittest’ is not about being the smartest or the strongest, it’s about being able to adapt. You’ve been able to adapt, and Dr. Maye and her office staff were willing and able to adapt, this is a lovely reminder of being open to meeting people where they are at, working together, being flexible, and a willingness to try ! As you referenced, it can be a struggle to find these qualities today.
Your post has been a gift to me me today, a helpful reminder to slow down, listen and the importance of flexibility and teamwork 😉
Thanks Shannon. You’re so right, being able to adapt is crucial for both sides. I hope you’re having a great summer. I was excited about hockey returning initially but am finding it hard to get into lol.
Wow – what a blessing for you to have Dr. Maye’s expertise & compassion. Thank you for sharing! I love reading your blogs so much. Big hugs & love to you, Leanne.
Thanks Deb. Lots of love to you. xo
AWESOME!!! As it should be!
I agree!
You continue to amaze me Leanne. You truly are an amazing person and hats off to that Doctor! That’s incredible!
I love reading you! I’m grateful that Dr. maye treated you with the dignity and respect you deserve and was naturally considerate of your humanity.
People can be such a light or a darkness to others lifting them up or pushing and weighing them down. She sounds like a beautiful gift to this world.
I’m proud of you Leanne for not giving up. Keep going and I know you’ve got lots to give and lots of life to live!