Posted in: Comics | Tagged: boom studios, george perez, Project Comic Con

George Perez Updates Fans On Vision Problems

Published Tue, 17 Sep 2013 14:00:05 -0500

Over on his facebook page, legendary comic artist and Boom! Studios exclusive George Perez wanted to update his fans prior to this weekends Project Comic Con in regards to his deteriorating vision problems. Here is what he wrote:

For those who have followed my posts for a good while, the fact that I've been dealing with vision problems will not be too much of a surprise.

However, I need to report that my eye troubles have taken a bit of a downturn as my left eye has experienced some hemorrhaging, pretty much blinding me in that eye. This has necessitated my wearing an eyepatch in order to see a bit more clearly through my right eye. (See photo for my new pirate persona!)

My eye doctor is continuing a combination of laser and injection surgery, but there is a possibility that I may require scalpel surgery in the near future. I need to begin treatments that will better control my diabetes and blood pressure before he can do that, though. I had considered keeping this private, but realized that it would become pretty public once I appeared at the Project Comic Con show in St. Louis this weekend.

I'm not going to minimize the seriousness of my situation, but I am still drawing (albeit with a bit more effort) and am trying to maintain a positive, upbeat attitude. My wife Carol (Phoenicia) is an enormous source of comfort, support and love and the friends and family members who've heard the news have been pillars of concern and well wishes. I appreciate all the strength they've provided me.

This is not meant to elicit pity, although any and all good wishes, positive vibes and even prayers will be greatly accepted with great thanks and sincerest humility.

Eye problems are one of the big concerns that comes with diabetes and is the number one cause of blindness in adults ages 20 to 74. High blood sugar can cause the lens in your eye to swell which changes your ability to see. Diabetes can also cause cataracts, glaucoma and retinopathy (background, maculopathy or proliverative). If you have been diagnosed with any form of diabetes including borderline (like myself), make sure you get annual eye checks from your doctor to prevent and/or treat these problems. Also see your doctor if you are suffering blurred vision, flashes of light, black spots or holes in your vision.

If you are in St. Louis this weekend for Project Comic Con, stop by and say 'hi' to George but try to avoid the pirate jokes. You can also post well wishes on his facebook page.

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