Clearly KC Podcast

Episode 39: From Patient to Advocate: A Nurse Researcher's Story on Keratoconus

In this episode of Clearly KC, Dr. Melissa Barnett welcomes Deidra Bonner, PhD candidate, registered nurse, and keratoconus patient advocate. Drawing from both her clinical background and personal experience, Deidra shares how her diagnosis shaped her path toward research focused on the quality of life of individuals living with keratoconus. Together, they explore the realities of delayed diagnosis, the life-changing impact of scleral lenses, and the often-overlooked emotional, social, and functional challenges that extend far beyond visual acuity. Deidra also introduces a holistic framework for understanding the patient experience and discusses the importance of communication, emergency preparedness, and advocacy in navigating life with keratoconus. This episode offers a powerful perspective on what it truly means to care for the whole patient—and why listening to the lived experience is essential to improving outcomes.

Episode 38: The Ocular Surface Equation: Strategies for Dry Eye and KC

In this episode of Clearly KC, Dr. Melissa Barnett welcomes dry eye expert Dr. Tracy Doll, Director of Ocular Surface Care Services at Sunset Eye Clinic in Oregon. Dr. Doll shares her signature "Clean, Calm, Protect" approach to treating chronic dry eye and ocular surface disease—especially in individuals with keratoconus. They explore how inflammation, corneal nerves, lifestyle habits, contact lenses, and even cosmetics influence comfort and visual clarity. Whether it’s diagnosing lid disease, coaching through contact lens challenges, or tackling makeup myths, Dr. Doll provides practical strategies to empower patients and elevate care.

Episode 37: AI, Insight, and Innovation: A New Era in Keratoconus Diagnosis

In this episode of Clearly KC, Dr. Melissa Barnett welcomes Dr. David Piñero, associate professor at the University of Alicante in Spain and one of the world’s leading experts in corneal topography. With over 450 published papers and a deep passion for improving keratoconus care, Dr. Piñero shares his insights on artificial intelligence, early detection, and the evolution of scleral lenses. Together, they explore how emerging technologies and patient-centered communication are reshaping the keratoconus journey.

Episode 36: Broadening Horizons: Perceptual Learning in Keratoconus Management

In this episode of Clearly KC, Dr. Melissa Barnett welcomes Professor Adi Einan-Lifshitz, a leading cornea and cataract surgeon from Israel’s Yitzhak Shamir Medical Center. They explore innovative approaches to managing keratoconus, including a groundbreaking study on perceptual learning that may improve vision in patients with stable KC. From early diagnosis and cross-linking strategies to the potential of brain-based training, this conversation challenges conventional thinking and points to new possibilities in patient care.

Episode 35: Stronger Together: Collaborative Care for Keratoconus

In this episode of Clearly KC, Dr. Melissa Barnett connects with Dr. Sam Garg, Vice Chair of Clinical Ophthalmology at the Gavin Herbert Eye Institute, about collaborative care in keratoconus management. They discuss patient expectations, cross-linking, specialty contact lenses, and how optometrists and ophthalmologists can work together to provide seamless, high-quality collaborative care.