Young Ophthalmologists Testimony

 Matilda-Svensson.jpg

Hello, dear members of the European Society of Dry Eyes,

Thank you for a well-executed congress in Madrid, 21-22 June 2024. My name is Matilda Svensson; I am a medical student at Gothenburg, Sweden, with the ambition to specialize in ophthalmology.

My interest in ophthalmology began when I worked as a healthcare administrator at an ophthalmology clinic, and patients were so happy after surgery. This past semester, I have been researching dry eye disease, which has been a great experience.

Dry eye disease is a challenging disease affecting many individuals. However, I have realized this condition's width and complexity, making it a fascinating area of research. With numerous potential approaches and a wide array of customizable treatments, we can improve the quality of life for many people. My talk at the congress focused on digital solutions for dry eye, showing the potential to help manage the symptoms of dry eye disease

The EUDEC congress highlighted the remarkable advancements in dry eye and the extensive work being done from various perspectives. I found the "Dry Eye for Beginners" session educational, providing valuable tips and tricks. Overall, this congress has been an incredibly informative and exciting experience. I am grateful that this was my first-ever congress, setting a high standard for future events.

Warm regards, Matilda Svensson

Francesc-March.jpg

Dear EuDES friends,

We all have been young, and every beginning has exciting, rewarding, and challenging moments. There is a lot to learn, and we need guidance. I have been fortunate to be surrounded by amazing people who help and support me. Many friends and professors have taught me much about being a better ophthalmologist and person, and I am incredibly grateful and appreciative.

Now, I am more focused on giving back. Stimulating young ophthalmologists (YO) is crucial for the continuous advancement of ophthalmology in the future of our field with fresh perspectives and experiences. I am privileged to be involved with the YO community, promoting new, talented people.

The European Society of Dry Eyes (EUDES) offers many opportunities for young ophthalmologists to grow and excel. Through fellowships, YOs can gain specialized knowledge, hands-on experience, and contact with experts who provide invaluable guidance and support. Additionally, EuDES encourages YOs to participate in congresses as speakers. This platform allows them to share their research, exchange ideas with peers, and gain recognition in the international ophthalmology community.

I encourage all young professionals to use these resources to enhance their skills, knowledge, and careers. EuDES offers many opportunities for growth and innovation in our field.

Best regards, Francesc March

 

2024

My name is Barbara Sophie Brunner, I am a resident in ophthalmology at the LMU University
Hospital in Munich. My special interest in ophthalmology has always been the ocular surface
disease, in particular dry eye disease.

I am also part of the cell and molecular biology research laboratory at our department.
Currently, I perform research on alternative pharmaceutical and phytotherapeutic substances to
treat dry eye disease. Prior work on dry eye disease and phytotherapeutics in our laboratory led
to the hypothesis that some herbal ingredients may exert antioxidant and anti-inflammatory
effects on corneal epithelial cells. To further corroborate this hypothesis, I am currently
investigating cell signaling pathways mediated by those substances.

This year was my first time at the European Dry Eye Society Congress (EuDEC) in Madrid.
Regarding this, my special appreciation and gratitude belong to my mentor in ocular surface
diseases, Prof. Elisabeth Messmer, for her tireless support, and for encouraging me to actively
participate as a speaker in the Young Ophthalmologist Session at the EuDEC. Overall, the
whole team of the Young Ophthalmology Session, especially Francesc, was very courteous,
appreciative, and supportive.

Since I enjoyed talking about my current research, I would also like to thank the Young
Ophthalmologist working group for offering me the time and space to do so. Personally, I think
the Young Ophthalmologist working group is a great institution encouraging young residents
to talk about their research in front of a highly interested audience.