Dr. Neal Sher provides free laser vision correction for soldiers as part of “The Sight for Soldiers” campaign

When Captain Joe H. of the Minnesota National Guard returns to Iraq later this year, he’ll spend at least part of his tour in the combat zone.

Thankfully, he’ll have one less thing to worry about when attacks come in the middle of the night: no longer will he be fumbling for his glasses as he makes his way to the safety of the bunker.

Free surgery for troops

Joe is one of more than 500 soldiers who have benefited from the Sight for Soldiers program developed by Neal A. Sher, MD, FACS, of Eye Care Associates, in conjunction with Phillips Eye Institute, the region's only specialty eye hospital.

As part of this program, Dr. Sher provides free laser vision correction surgery to troops deploying to combat zones in Iraq or Afghanistan. These soldiers typically can't access such surgery through military channels, and many can’t afford it on their own.

In 2004, Dr. Sher began offering the surgery free to just a few soldiers. Phillips Eye Institute agreed to significantly reduce its fees, so they would not have to incur any out-of-pocket costs. Word spread among soldiers and their families and eventually up the chain of command. In 2008, Dr. Sher received a personal letter of commendation from Gen. David Petraeus, then commanding general, Multi-National Force – Iraq.

A true lifesaver

Having good vision without eyeglasses or contact lenses isn't just a convenience in an environment like Afghanistan or Iraq. "Glasses can be broken or lost, and the dry climate, high altitude and dust are not conducive to contacts," said Sher. "For soldiers in harm's way, good vision can be a lifesaver."

As Joe's eyes healed from surgery, he gauged his progress by looking out his window each morning. "Every day, the leaves and branches on the tree outside became more crisp and clear."
"People who haven't lived with poor vision may not realize what a life-changing procedure this is," he added. "This gift has inspired me personally, and I only hope that I can pay it forward."

The Sight for Soldiers fund was established by Dr. Sher and the Phillips Eye Institute Foundation to defer some of the costs of the surgery. Due to the high costs of performing this surgery, even the reduced facility fee that the Phillips Eye Institute charges is a barrier for some soldiers. In addition, many come from out of state and stay at a hotel for several days, adding to the expense.

TO DONATE CLICK HERE, GO TO THE DROPDOWN MENU IN THE DESIGNATION AREA AND CHOOSE SIGHT FOR SOLDIERS

BACK