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Keraclub22

Thursday, August 4, 2022 at 5.30pm -7pm AEST
Online via Zoom

Stem cell therapies, nanotechnology and beyond: the future of keratoconus

Are stem cell therapies using bioengineered tissue developed with state-of-the-art nanotechnology the future of keratoconus treatments? Innovative research underway as part of Sydney University's Nano Grand Challenge project is providing hope that nano- bioengineered solutions can be developed to reverse vision loss caused by keratoconus. Perhaps one day, these types of therapies will enable patients to discard their contact lenses and spectacles.

KeraClub 2022 is honoured to welcome two of Australia's leading researchers in the fields of nanotechnology and keratoconus, Dr Yogambha Ramaswamy and Professor Stephanie Watson OAM who will offer a rare insight into the latest research that could revolutionise the way keratoconus is treated and managed.

This year's KeraClub event, will be held on Thursday, August 4, 2022 at 5.30pm-7pm AEST online via Zoom only.

Other topics of discussion at the event will include the latest findings from the Save Sight Keratoconus Registry and new research on impacts of keratoconus on quality of life, how to best manage contact lenses for keratoconus, patients' real life experiences with living with keratoconus and an overview of Keratoconus Australia's activities supporting people with keratoconus and their families.

KeraClub22 is a joint initiative of Keratoconus Australia and Sydney University's Save Sight Institute and Nano Institute.

All are welcome whether you are a patient, family member, friend or have a loved one living with keratoconus. You are invited to participate in discussions among clinicians, researchers, and patients, and share with them how you've lived with keratoconus.

This is a free event. Please register below.

REGISTER NOW

Speakers

Dr Yogambha Ramaswamy, a senior lecturer at the School of Aerospace, Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering will present the application of nanotechnology to keratoconus care. Yogi is a chemical engineer with a PhD in biomedical engineering and a Master's degree in Biotechnology. She is an internationally renowned researcher with expertise and interests in areas including biomaterials, tissue engineering, and mechanobiology

Professor Stephanie Watson OAM will discuss evidence-based management of keratoconus highlighting ground-breaking research from the Save Sight Keratoconus Registry. Stephanie is the Head of Corneal Research Unit at the Save Sight Institute and Head, Corneal Unit at Sydney Eye Hospital, the Chief investigator of the Save Sight Keratoconus Registry project and Co-Deputy Director, Industry, Innovation and Commercialisation, Sydney Nano Institute

Dr Himal Kandel, the Kornhauser Research Associate at the Save Sight Keratoconus Registry will present new quality-of-life research from the Save Sight Keratoconus registry. Evaluating and improving quality-of-life has been a major focus of the Save Sight Keratoconus Registry

Mark Koszek, a leading Sydney optometrist and expert on corneal scleral lenses for keratoconus, on optimising contact lens wear with keratoconus. Mark is a founding partner and the Professional Education Officer of EyeQ Optometrists. Mark has lectured extensively throughout Australia, New Zealand and Asia on contact lenses, dry eye and ocular diseases

Justine McLaughlin, Sydney solicitor and local government councillor and deputy mayor, will share her lived experiences with keratoconus. Justine was diagnosed with Keratoconus in her late teens and managed it through glasses and hard contacts until an emergency corneal transplant in 2005

Larry Kornhauser OAM will discuss the role of Keratoconus Australia in supporting people with keratoconus. Larry has a lived experience of keratoconus and is the founder-president of Keratoconus Australia. Larry and Keratoconus Australia have supported Save Sight Keratoconus Registry and were the co-founders of KeraClub in 2015

Michelle Pritchard, an internationally reputed violist and violinist who has also lived most of her life with keratoconus, will chair the KeraClub 2022. Michelle has recently completed a Master of Music at The Royal Conservatoire, The Hague with Cum Laude (distinction)

There will be ample time to question our expert panellists

Registration is free but essential. To register, visit https://KeraClub2022.eventbrite.com.au . or scan the QR code. Zoom details for the event will be emailed to the participants closer to the event. Please contact us at ssi.community@sydney.edu.au if you need more information