Outside Optometry – Trying Something New

I competed in my first ever triathlon yesterday, which also marked the first time wearing spandex outside the house (photo intentionally deleted). I had a fabulous time competing, but Olympian Simon Whitfield can sleep peacefully knowing that I will not be challenging any of his records any time soon.

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I decided that in my mid 30’s it was time to try something new in order to stay in shape. I was getting bored of doing the same old thing at the gym (when I went). I decided on triathlons, because I love to swim, I enjoy a good bike ride, and I can tolerate running for 10 kilometers.

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The biggest obstacle when starting anything new of course is getting over your fears: fear of failure, fear of looking foolish, fear of not finishing or finishing last. But like many things we do in life, most of our fears only exist in our heads, and rarely play out in reality. Life has taught me that my biggest fear in life, is not living it.

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You learn a lot about yourself when you try something new, sports, business or otherwise. You learn to push your personal boundaries and discover what your capable of. You learn from you mistakes, your achievements, and improve a little each time you do it.

Book your next eye exam with optometrist Dr. Ross McKenzie

What is Pink Eye?

To start, there are a few different types of pink eye:

Pink eye related to bacterial eye infections can cause a lot of swelling and produce sticky green discharge, resulting in eyes that are often ‘glued’ shut in the morning. Bacterial eye infections are more commonly seen in contact lens wearers and can result from our skins own bacteria.

Pink eye related to viral infections is by far the most common cause, and is caused by the same virus that results in the common cold. Viral pink eye will usually result in a watery eye with little to no discharge, but may still be crusted shut in the morning. Viral pink eye is the most contagious of all pink eyes, which is why it hangs out in preschools, daycares and work environments.

Pink eye related to allergies is more common after coming in contact with allergens and is often associated with other physical symptoms like stuffy nose, itchy skin or swollen eyes. People often complain of itching and may want to rub their eyes.

Pink eye can also be related to some more serious eye conditions like scleritis, uveitis, or iritis. These eye conditions require more urgent care, and will generally not resolve on their own if left untreated.

Regardless of the cause of your pink eye, it’s important to get an accurate diagnosis by your optometrist to ensure that the treatment matches the condition. Please don’t touch anyone until you see us, and we’ll let you know if you are contagious.

Please Note: Alberta Health Care now covers the cost of emergency eye care visits to your optometrists office – there is no charge to you as a patient. 

It's a Dog's Life!

​3 years ago I made an impulsive decision to drive to Saskatchewan and get a dog.  So far I have no regrets, in fact this has turned out to be one of the best decision of my life.  My dog has managed to restore balance to my at times chaotic and overworked life. She is always the first one to greet me when I get home at night and hyperventilates out of excitement, which is both cute and kind of scary.

Medically, pets can provide substantial health benefits for their owners. Pets help reduce stress, increase personal fitness and act as an anti-depressant by putting a smile on their owners face. Pets also provide someone to talk to when no one else will listen.

Over the past few years my dog has taught me a number of valuable life lessons, which I try to live up to.

1. Get excited when you see your family, friends and co-workers
2. Take time for a nap
3. Play each and every day
4. Go for a walk
5. Routine is ok
6. Treats are ok, sometimes
7. Drink plenty of water
8. Your body language says a lot
9. Stay curious
10. Forgive and forget quickly
11. Life is short
12. Talk to your neighbour

If dogs are not for you, then consider getting a cat like by business partner Dr. Bakelaar or a whole bunch of fish like my friend Pete. Good medicine doesn’t always have to come in the shape of a pill.