Houma doctor giving vets free eye exams

Ophthalmologist A.J. delaHoussaye is offering veterans a free eye exam beginning Saturday in honor of their heroism.

The Houma doctor is offering free full exams to veterans and their families at his SEECA office on 249 Corporate Dr. in Houma. Appointments can be scheduled through Dec. 31.

Last year, delaHoussaye said his office spent over $40,000 in free eye care.

This is the fourth year the ophthalmologist has opened his office to veterans. “Our goal is to provide free eye care, detect severe pathology and prevent blindness among our veterans,” delaHoussaye said. Past exams have uncovered glaucoma, macular degeneration and diabetic eye disease, he said.

Because Veterans Hospital in New Orleans is unable to help patients, the service is even more vital now, he said.

“During the event, no money is collected from veterans, no insurance is billed, nor do we collect information for marketing purposes,” delaHoussaye said. “We offer this event as a completely free, ‘no strings attached’ service to our veterans and their families.”

The doctor said his admiration for veterans is personal; his father was killed fighting in the Vietnam War in 1968.

For the service, the eye doctor has been honored by the United Veterans League of Freedom with its Patriotic Citizens of the Year in 2004-2005.

For more information, call (985) 853-0900.