State Representative Mike Fortner (R-West Chicago) will be hosting the Illinois Eye Institute Glaucoma Van on Monday, August 18 to provide free glaucoma screenings to local residents. Fortner said the Glaucoma Van provides a convenient and affordable way for local citizens to get tested for this potentially serious eye disease.
“If glaucoma is treated early, further damage to the optic nerve and blindness can be prevented,” said Fortner. “Unfortunately, most patients do not experience any symptoms of glaucoma until the sight has already been permanently affected. That is why it is important for citizens, especially those at risk, to have their vision tested for glaucoma regularly. I encourage everyone to take advantage of the free and convenient screenings offered by the Glaucoma Van to prevent blindness and vision loss.”
Fortner said patients at higher risk for developing glaucoma include African Americans, those with Hispanic origins, individuals over the age of 40, patients with high blood pressure or diabetes, and anyone with a family history of glaucoma. The lawmaker said an interpreter will be on hand for residents who speak Spanish.
The free glaucoma screenings will be held:
Monday, August 18
10:00 am to 2:00 pm
Supermercado LaChiquita
133 W. Roosevelt Road
West Chicago, IL