A Golfer’s Life Without Glasses
It’s early in the morning, and Don and his father are the first people (once again) to arrive at the golf course. The air is quiet, and the two tee up for their morning game.
“Those are my favorite memories playing golf, any time I played with my father. He was an all-around athlete – golf, tennis, anything. I loved doing anything he did.” Don started playing golf over 50 years ago, and his lifelong passion is infectious. Today, in his role as the Head Golf Professional at the Gibson Island Golf Course, Don’s job is to make sure others enjoy their time on the course in any way he can. “I give lessons, and I listen to people talk about their experiences. I’m like the town barber; I hear funny stories and talk with people about golf. I like working somewhere people are happy. When people come to the golf course, they’re here to have a good time. I’m in heaven every day I go to work.”
Don went to Dr. Anthony Kameen (now, Ophthalmologist at Katzen Eye Group) for his LASIK procedure three and a half years ago. Over the last 5 or so years, his deteriorating vision began giving him problems on the golf course. Struggling to quickly identify the right club for the shot and asking his playing partners where his ball landed was starting to take the fun out of the game, but he was reluctant to turn to bifocals.
I probably would have played not knowing where the ball was going for a while longer before I would wear glasses. But fortunately, I didn’t have to. Dr. Kameen gave me my eyes back.– Don Skacan
Following his LASIK procedure, Don attests that his renewed vision has improved every aspect of the game. The green no longer swallows the sight of Don’s shots as they arc into the distance toward their targets. Without bifocals and without straining, Don is able to once again experience the joy of watching the golf ball for its entire flight. Now, it’s his playing partners asking Don where their shots have landed.
Every game I play now, something happens that gives me a ‘wow’ moment. I think, ‘Gosh, I wouldn’t have been able to do that.’ It’s been great being able to wear sunglasses without my sight being distorted these past few summers. LASIK has made a huge difference.– Don Skacan
These days, Don plays golf with his sons, both in their early thirties. His favorite time to play is in the evening. When the trees’ shadows begin to lengthen and the sun hits the green just so, there’s a quiet in the air reminiscent of those early mornings spent playing with his father.
