I know, I’ve said it before, but the generosity of the eye health profession never ceases to amaze me.
We’ve seen the profession at its best over the past few months, coming together to support individuals and businesses – including optometry practices – that were effected by devastating bushfires.
I was overwhelmed by the practical and financial offers made by suppliers and practices, and by the stories told about communities pulling together. I’m sure you were too.
Dr James Muecke AM, 2020 Australian of the Year, would have to be one of the country’s most generous, volunteering 40 hours of each week to Sight For All, the social impact organisation he founded 10 years ago. In accepting the award, Dr Muecke spoke about his intention to use 2020 to campaign about diabetes and its blinding complications, before deflecting from his own achievements to pay tribute to the firefighters who spent their
summer fighting fires.
“During this turmoil, we’ve seen the best in human nature and have witnessed the true Aussie spirit rise – proud, and unrelenting. It’s heart-warming to see the outpouring of goodwill when generosity from the public and the selfless acts of bravery from our courageous firefighters and emergency services. In my eyes, these Aussies are our heroes, and I applaud their sacrifice and unwavering commitment.”
His generous spirit was true to form.
This issue is all about glaucoma and is packed with articles from ophthalmologists and optometrists who have volunteered their time to share their knowledge and research with you.
Thank you to Annie Gibbins and Associate Professor Simon Skalicky at Glaucoma Australia for coordinating the content, and to our many contributors.
As we put the final touches on this issue of mivision, Australia’s bushfires were mostly contained. However, we still have many weeks and a few months ahead during which they may flair up.
There is no doubt that communities will continue to rely on the profession’s generosity, and that it will be unwavering.
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