When Judy Huang, a Columbus-based businesswoman, was diagnosed with glaucoma in her 30s, she had no symptoms—only a routine eye exam revealed the silent progression of the disease. Two decades later, Judy continues to manage her vision and health with unrelenting determination. Her story is not just about managing a chronic eye condition but about becoming a fiercely proactive patient. Her advice is simple yet profound: “Be curious about your disease; invest in your own glaucoma journey.”

Navigating a Complex Treatment Path

Judy’s glaucoma treatment began with selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) and a series of medicated eye drops, but her naturally low blood pressure posed risks when combined with beta blockers. Seeking other options, Judy went to Canada for a procedure not FDA-approved at the time, but it proved unsuccessful. Undeterred, she pursued second and third opinions, eventually undergoing a successful surgery and later a traditional trabeculectomy.

Her commitment extended internationally. Judy explored options at the Sevir Center in Magdeburg, Germany, and kept tabs on U.S. clinical trials. That global perspective, combined with persistent self-advocacy, helped her find stability and regain control over her care.

Faith, Advocacy, and Clinical Research

Judy credits her Christian faith for sustaining her through difficult phases, particularly when vision loss made her feel powerless. As she deepened her engagement, she began attending webinars, following glaucoma research, and connecting with leading doctors. She became a clinical trial participant, testing insulin eye drops at Stanford and volunteering for another trial involving CNTF therapy. Her advice for patients: check out clinicaltrials.gov to explore opportunities.

Holistic Living and Ongoing Gratitude

For Judy, managing glaucoma isn’t just about intraocular pressure (IOP); it’s about lifestyle. She recommends renting an at-home tonometer, eating a healthy diet, managing stress, and not relying solely on a single medical opinion. Above all, she urges fellow patients to “be grateful for what you are seeing.” Her closing reflection resonates: “I can’t think about what my eyes used to see…I’m just very grateful for the vision I have right now.”

*The Glaucoma Foundation. (2025, July 9). Living With Glaucoma: Meet Judy Huang. The July, 2025 Newsletter.
Image source: YouTube (2025, Aug 6) Judy Huang: My Glaucoma Story. Jun 1, 2018

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