During a comprehensive dilated eye exam, a patient told me that part of his vision was blacked out in his right eye. I discovered a branch retinal artery occlusion near his macula. I explained that the blood flow to that area of his retina was blocked and as a result that section of retina had essentially lost function forever. I then expressed to him the need to go to a stroke center at a hospital the next day to assess what kind of stroke risk was present. His visit revealed right carotid artery stenosis and an operation was scheduled. He was very grateful that he was referred so quickly so that he could avoid having a full-blown stroke, or even worse–death.“

– Jordan Ballantyne O.D.