When Melvin Ross was diagnosed with wet macular degeneration in his left eye several years ago, his ophthalmologist told him nothing could be done to save the central part of his vision and that he could expect the same problem to develop in his other eye.
Mr. Ross, who was only in his early 60s, and his wife Sally committed themselves to finding the best retina specialist and doing whatever it took to save his vision. Although they were willing to travel to get that care, the Beachwood couple’s research showed them that one of the world’s best retina specialists was just down the road — Hilel Lewis, M.D., Chairman of the Cleveland Clinic Cole Eye Institute.
Dr. Lewis examined Mr. Ross and decided to treat him with photodynamic therapy. After five treatments, the lesions on his retina stopped leaking. Although he has lost some vision that will never be fully restored, Mr. Ross’ eyesight has not gotten worse for more than a year and he feels it is actually a little better. The Ross’ were so appreciative of the care they received that they created The Melvin and Sally Ross Endowed Fund for Macular Degeneration Research to support research being done at The Cole Eye Institute.
“We want to help spare other members of our generation from this problem,” explains Mrs. Ross. “We took a tour of the research facilities and got excited about the program,” adds Mr. Ross, who is semi-retired from United Properties, a real estate investment and management company that is now run primarily by his son. He says he and his wife are especially interested in studies of the role genetics plays in the disease because they have three children and eight grandchildren.
“We were willing to go anywhere for great medical care, and we didn’t have to go very far. Some people think the grass is always greener someplace else, but we have had a great experience right here,” says Mrs. Ross, who now comes to The Cole Eye Institute for her general eye care needs as well.
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To read more about this and related topics, see:
Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Macular Degeneration
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This information is provided by the Cleveland Clinic and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition. This document was last reviewed on: 5/1/2006
