June 2023 – From June 29 to July 1, 2023, the SICSSO Congress took place in Sicily, Italy, bringing together leading eye specialists from around the world to discuss advancements in ophthalmology. Our founder, Juliette Vila Sinclair Spence, was honored to be invited to share the patient perspective on Acanthamoeba Keratitis (AK), highlighting the challenges and needs of those affected by this rare and devastating eye disease.

Juliette had the privilege of speaking alongside renowned clinical experts, including:
👁 Elmer Tu – University of Illinois, Chicago (US)
👁 Edward J. Holland – Cincinnati Eye Institute (US)
👁 Karl Anders Knutsson – Ospedale San Raffaele (Italy)
👁 Vincenzo Sarnicola – Honorary President of SICSSO (Italy)
👁 Enrica Sarnicola – Scientific Secretariat of SICSSO (Italy)
👁 Mor Dickman – MUMC+ (Netherlands)

This congress provided a crucial platform to raise awareness about AK, emphasize the importance of early diagnosis, treatment challenges, and patient support, and strengthen collaborations between medical professionals and patient advocates.

The Acanthamoeba Keratitis Eye Foundation remains committed to ensuring that AK patients have a voice in scientific discussions, fostering better care and improved outcomes worldwide.