Over the years, as my prescription became thicker and thicker, not to mention more and more expensive….Lasik surgery was becoming more and more common and less expensive.

I conceded to making an appointment with an office that was advertising the surgery for $299 an eye.  After a brief consultation it was deemed I was a candidate for the surgery.  However, I just wasn’t convinced.  I did not have the peace of mind to move forward.  I worried about dry eyes...After all, I contributed some of my difficulty with wearing contacts to dry eyes.  I was also puzzled as to how they could do the surgery so inexpensively.   What was the difference in Lasik for $299 an eye and Lasik for over $2000 an eye?  I was very sure of one thing….if I ever did have the surgery, I would not be able to settle for anything but the best, after all this involved my eyes!!  Time passed and I just accepted I most likely would never feel I could spend that kind of money on myself for an elective procedure. 

That is where my story changes….thanks to the generosity of Dr. Arrowsmith and his passion to share his abilities with others, enabling them to experience the precious gift of sight to its fullest.  I actually won the surgery donated by Dr. Arrowsmith in a drawing at a health fair I attended!   The only stipulation was that I be a viable candidate for the surgery based on a comprehensive and thorough exam by Dr. Arrowsmith.  And let me assure you….it was indeed the most comprehensive and thorough eye exam I ever imagined.  Upon completion of the exam, Dr. Arrowsmith assured me I was indeed a candidate.  He spent over an hour talking with me and addressing all of my concerns and questions in detail….and he wasn’t making a penny.  His commitment to his profession, his years of experience and his role in pioneering Lasik surgery was evident.  I knew I was with the right Doctor and he had the right equipment.

The actual procedure itself was unbelievably pleasant.  Dr. Arrowsmith and his staff explained to me step by step what would take place and in what order.  I knew exactly what to expect.  I also found it very reassuring that while the procedure was under way, Dr. Arrowsmith continued to update me as to where they were as they moved through the stages.  It was a piece of cake!  I honestly felt no discomfort, only a very slight pressure sensation. 

When it was over, Dr. Arrowsmith led me to a window and asked me to look down onto the street and tell him what I could see.   It was unbelievable!  It still blows my mind, but I could read the street signs from his window immediately after the surgery. 

Following his directions, I went straight home and took a very long nap.  He called that evening to check on me and I went back the following morning for my follow up appointment.

A year later, I continue to be amazed at how liberating it is to be free from corrective lenses.  There really are no words to describe it.  It is something you have to experience yourself and I hope you will!  If cost is a hindering factor, I encourage you to attend an open house hosted frequently at Dr. Arrowsmith’s office.  Who knows?  You could be the next lucky recipient of one of Dr. Arrowsmith’s drawings!  Good luck!

Warm Regards,

Jane McCoy