Like many former preemies – babies born before the optimal 36 weeks – I was at high risk for serious eye problems as an adult. I feared that a tear or a detachment of my retina (the thin layer of tissue on the inside back wall of the eyeball that receives and organizes visual information) would force me to abandon my career as a journalist and be marooned on the sidelines of life. The hospital where I was born suggested I consult a retinal expert, so I became Dr. MacKay’s patient in 1980. Thanks to Dr. MacKay’s detailed evaluations and explanations, my worries disappeared. When the inevitable tear developed, Dr. MacKay repaired it with a state-of-the-art laser. Much to my amazement, my vision is excellent, enabling me to continue to work and enjoy my hobbies of reading fiction and enjoying art. Every day, I am grateful for Dr. MacKay’s outstanding care.

I have thought of writing this letter to you many times over the years. You saved my eyesight with your diagnostic skills and your wonderful abilities as a laser surgeon. I will never forget the warmth and gratitude I feel towards your help. My eyesight has essentially been stable since that time and I am doing okay overall. Warm regards and best wishes,

“One day I found a strange bump underneath my eyelid and wanted to get it checked out right away. I started calling around to ophthalmologists in the area but the first few I reached were either very rude or didn’t have any openings for at least a month. Dr. MacKay’s office, on the other hand, was able fit me in the very next day…” (more at YELP reviews)

My son, Max Cronin, age 27 years old, committed suicide 1-14-16, as a direct result of complications he experienced from Lasik. He left suicide letters stating this and kept details of his complications. He experienced vision loss, constant eye pain, dry eyes, haze, and loss of quality of life resulting in depression and his suicide. He was unable to work or continue his life goals due to his eye complications.

As a medical physician, I can definitely state that Lasik complications can lead to suicide. I can also say that no one should have elective Lasik on their eyes.

For an elective procedure, the risks and long term complications are understated. The resultant complications and negative quality of life issues increase the risks of depression, attempted suicide, and suicide.