Jonathon Glover joined the military in 2006 and six months later was diagnosed with Marfan syndrome.

Marfan syndrome is a genetic disorder of the connective tissue. People with Marfan's tend to be unusually tall, with long limbs and long, thin fingers. Marfan syndrome can also seriously affect the eyes and vision. The Marfan syndrome was detected early, and Glover noticed his vision started to decline along with severe headaches. He started wearing glasses, but over the course of a year his vision just kept getting worse.

Optometrist Barry Kavanaugh, of Seven Lakes, referred Glover to Carolina Eye Associates for a surgical lens implant. Anna Fakadej, M.D., placed a standard lens in Glover's eyes in 2008. Eventually, the stitch holding the lens in place eroded through the iris.

Fakadej researched her options and decided the Aphakia lens would be the best lens replacement for Glover. After eight months of paperwork, the FDA approved the device to Dr. Fakadej as a compassionate use exemption, which allows for unapproved devices to be used for treatment and research on a case-by-case basis.

Glover just received his follow-up visit from surgery at Carolina Eye and said, "I am very appreciative of Dr. Fakadej going the extra mile to get the Aphakia lens approved through a compassionate exemption by the FDA and currently have no pain and can see clearly. Marfan syndrome is treatable, but early diagnosis and good medical care is key."