President's Message: 

An End-of-Year Reflection

Matt Valdes, OD, FAAO

TOA President  

About this time of year, we are inundated with a variety of lists. The year’s top 10 from fashion to movies or songs and even “influencers.” An opportunity to reflect back on 365 days often filled with great joys and sometimes bitter disappointments. A chance to celebrate the successes and learn from the mistakes. German Chancellor Otto von Bismarck has been attributed with saying, “The wise man learns from the mistakes of others.” I will not bore you with a “list” but rather reflect on this past year serving as TOA president and share some of the insights I’ve gained. 

1. Surround yourself with outstanding people. 

• As much as we like to believe in the idea of individual effort, great teams do great things. This past year I tested positive for COVID one day prior to Optometry’s Meeting. Although I was unable to attend, we were still well-represented at our various obligations. I even got to “tag along” for the ride. I am grateful for the amazing TOA board and staff who I’ve had the privilege to serve alongside this past year to make the profession better for all Texas ODs.

2. Don’t lose sight of the bigger picture…

• Things simply do not change overnight. Our profession faces many challenges and uncertainty, which can, at times, feel a bit overwhelming, distracting us from our purpose. We don’t know what this upcoming legislative session will bring, but we will continue our march toward improving our profession one step at a time. Each small victory brings us closer to the future we desire. Each setback provides us with an opportunity to learn, adapt and overcome. I am thankful for those who came before me to help set a clear vision of what this profession can be and for helping guide us along the way. 

3. Remember those who gave behind the scenes.

• Service requires sacrifice. Sometimes it’s resources; for others, it’s time. Within the TOA, it often means a bit of both. But it’s easy to overlook the sacrifices made by our families that allow us to serve this great profession. Our spouses will never win optometrist of the year. Our children will never be recognized for outstanding service to the profession. But they are all every bit as important in helping this profession advance. I am thankful for my wife, Elizabeth, who has supported me during my time on the board, and my children for being understanding when I may have to miss a swim meet. Remember to thank your loved ones who are giving behind the scenes; they are a big part of why we can do what we do.

This past year has been very rewarding, and I am encouraged with how we have positioned ourselves for 2023. But the reality is my time here is finite, and new leaders will emerge to carry the profession forward. To those who choose to answer the call, find good support, stay true to the mission, and most importantly, never forget your loved ones.

Have a safe and happy holiday, and we look forward to an even better 2023. 

All the best.

AOA InfantSEE Award Nominations Open through February 13th, 2023

Case Report: Staging and Treatment of Ocular Chemical Burns

Authors: Austin Barr, OD, David Dinh OD FAAO, Marcus Gonzales OD FAAO, Andrew Kemp OD FAAO, Zanna Krouch OD FAAO at Cedar Springs Eye Clinic, Dallas, TX

Chemical burns of the eye can be classified as either acidic or alkaline. While alkaline burns typically cause more extensive damage due to their rapid penetration of ocular tissues, both types can have debilitating and even blinding effects if left untreated. It is estimated that 11.5-22.1% of ocular traumas are the result of chemical burns demonstrating the importance of knowing how to stage and treat these patients appropriately.¹ This case report will detail one approach to staging and managing a chemical burn of the eye, while also exploring various other approaches that could be utilized.

February

16th - 19th 

JW Marriott - Downtown Austin, TX



"THE Meeting" in Texas!

Optometrist Continuing Education

Optometric Staff Education

Full Exhibit Hall - Industry's TOP Vendors

Job Placement Social

Fun, Games, Live Band

TOPICS INCLUDE:

Opioid Course, Human Trafficking, Professional Responsibility Course, CPR, Glaucoma, OCT, Eyelids, Retina, LSCD, AMD, , Topography, Orthokeratology, Nutrition, Pharmaceuticals, Dry Eye, Scleral Lens, Pediatrics, Ocular Allergies,

Cybersecurity, New Technologies and more

TOA's Newest Members

TOA is proud to welcome our latest members.

HINDSIGHT: Journal of Optometry History

TOA/AOA MEMBER BENEFIT:

Hindsight: The Journal of Optometry History is the quarterly publication of The Optometric Historical Society, a program of Optometry Cares®—The AOA Foundation.

The Optometric Historical Society (OHS) has been publishing a quarterly newsletter or journal since 1970. Originally titled Newsletter of the Optometric Historical Society (1970-1991, Volumes 1-22) and Hindsight: Newsletter of the Optometric Historical Society (1992-1996 Volumes 23-27), the journal began publication under the title Hindsight: Journal of Optometry History in 2007 (Volume 38, Number 1). In 2016, the OHS launched the electronic edition of Hindsight available for members only.

Access Digital Hindsight Issues, purchase printed Hindsight Issues, become a reviewer, and more information on the Optometric Historical Society click the button below.