A 23-year-old woman from the United States, Brooklyn McCasland, has tragically lost vision in one eye following a rare parasitic infection linked to her decision to swim while wearing contact lenses. The alarming incident occurred during her visit to Alabama in August, where she contracted acanthamoeba keratitis (AK)—a dangerous amoeba that densely affects the cornea and can lead to irreversible vision impairment. “This infection mimics other common infections, so at the time, I was put on steroids and a handful of other drops,” Ms. McCasland recounted on a GoFundMe page established to assist her with mounting medical expenses.
Ms. McCasland expressed her frustration regarding the significant delay in diagnosing this rare yet severe infection, which ultimately led to the condition worsening tremendously. “I was in the most pain I’ve ever experienced and eventually went fully blind in my right eye,” she lamented. This harrowing experience pushed her to visit optical professionals every two days while also being referred to specialized eye doctors in her quest for relief from the unbearable pain and troubling vision loss.
When she finally received the results confirming the presence of acanthamoeba keratitis, the gravity of the situation was starkly illustrated to her: she could face permanent blindness or even the loss of her eye if she did not commence treatment without delay. “Because this infection is so rare, the drops that are used for treatment are only made in the UK. Luckily, the doctor’s office in Dallas had a couple of samples so I could start treatment as soon as possible,” Ms. McCasland shared, highlighting the global implications of her situation.
To combat the infection, Ms. McCasland is required to administer eye drops every 30 minutes, noting that “it is such a slow healing process.” Despite the ongoing struggles, she expressed gratitude for receiving a proper diagnosis. “I’m thankful that we know exactly what it is and I’m able to start the correct treatment,” she stated. “If I would have realized that simply avoiding swimming with my contacts could have prevented all of this pain, I would have never risked it.”
According to the Cleveland Clinic, acanthamoeba keratitis infections are uncommon, with an estimated 1,500 cases reported annually in the United States; alarmingly, contact lens wearers account for approximately 90% of those infections. The clinic elucidates that prolonged contact wear, improper storage or cleaning of lenses, and engaging in activities like swimming or showering while wearing them significantly elevate the risk of contacting this hazardous parasite.
For Ms. McCasland, her battle remains ongoing as a recent consultation revealed that the infection “looked not completely worse but not better than last time.” She faces the unsettling possibility of requiring a cornea transplant once the infection is eradicated. “This could take months, but I’m thankful that we know exactly what it is. I hope my journey will help prevent anyone else from going through this,” Ms. McCasland concluded, showcasing her determination and hope amidst her difficult circumstances.
**Interview with Brooklyn McCasland: A Journey Through Acanthamoeba Keratitis**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Brooklyn. Your story is incredibly impactful. Can you start by telling us what happened during your trip to Alabama?
**Brooklyn McCasland:** Thank you for having me. During my trip to Alabama, I went swimming while wearing my contact lenses, which I didn’t realize could be risky. Shortly after, I started experiencing extreme pain and blurry vision, but at first, I thought it was just a common eye infection.
**Interviewer:** That must have been terrifying. You mentioned in your GoFundMe that there was a significant delay in your diagnosis. Could you elaborate on that?
**Brooklyn McCasland:** Yes, it was really frustrating. I visited several doctors and was initially treated for what they thought was just standard inflammation. I was put on steroids and various eye drops, but none of it helped. It took multiple visits and a lot of pain before they finally recognized it as acanthamoeba keratitis.
**Interviewer:** Acanthamoeba keratitis is rare, but what do you want others to know about it, especially those who wear contact lenses?
**Brooklyn McCasland:** I want people to understand how serious this infection can be. If you wear contact lenses, it’s crucial to avoid exposing them to water, whether it’s in a pool, ocean, or even the shower. My story is a painful reminder of the risks involved.
**Interviewer:** How did you cope with the pain and the emotional toll of potentially losing your sight?
**Brooklyn McCasland:** It was incredibly hard. I was in excruciating pain, and it felt like my vision was slipping away. I sought treatment from multiple optical professionals and was finally referred to specialists. The constant fear of permanent blindness was overwhelming. I tried to stay hopeful, but it was a struggle.
**Interviewer:** Once you received your diagnosis, what was the treatment process like?
**Brooklyn McCasland:** Once they confirmed the diagnosis, I learned how critical it was to start treatment immediately. Fortunately, the doctor’s office in Dallas had some samples of the special drops needed, which are only made in the UK. I began treatment right away, but the process has been long and intensive.
**Interviewer:** what message would you like to share with others regarding prevention and awareness?
**Brooklyn McCasland:** Please take the risks of wearing contact lenses seriously. Avoid exposing them to water, and if you ever experience unusual pain or vision changes, seek medical help immediately. This is not just another infection – it can have life-altering consequences.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for sharing your story with us, Brooklyn. It’s a powerful reminder of the importance of eye safety and health.
**Brooklyn McCasland:** Thank you for having me. I hope my experience can help others stay safe.