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According to the CDC, the infection is caused when a microscopic organism called Acanthamoeba invades the cornea, the transparent outer covering of the eye. Without treatment, the infection can lead to scarring of the cornea and eventually, blindness. At the age of 14, Jackie Stillmaker contracted Acanthamoeba keratitis after swimming with her contacts on and continues to suffer from the painful symptoms. She compares the pain to feeling as though she was being stabbed in the eye every few seconds. She has now undergone three corneal transplants before her 18th birthday and continues to have visual impairments. In an effort to educate the public and to offer a support group to those who have suffered from Acanthamoeba keratitis, Mary Beth Stillmaker, Jackie’s mother, has joined with Prevent Blindness America to create a free, online discussion forum. “The Acanthamoeba and Fusarium Fungal Infections and Contact Lens Use Forum” allows patients and/or parents the opportunity to discuss all subjects related to the infections, and participants are encouraged to share their own experiences. "The good news is that, if diagnosed and treated early, the effects of acanthamoeba keratitis can be minimal. However, only an eye doctor can tell you if you have the infection," said Sherry Williams, President & CEO of Prevent Blindness Ohio. "We urge everyone who uses contact lenses to practice the highest level of lens care and to report any changes in vision to their eye doctor immediately." According to the CDC, symptoms of Acanthamoeba keratitis may include: Eye pain Eye redness Blurred vision Sensitivity to light Sensation of something in the eye Excessive tearing Prevent Blindness Ohio offers the following tips on proper contact lens care: Always wear contact lenses under the supervision of an eye care professional. Always clean and disinfect contact lenses according to instructions. Always store contact lenses properly in a clean storage case. Always use water-soluble cosmetics or those labeled safe for use with contact lenses. Do not apply skin creams or moisturizers too close to the eyes. Never buy contact lenses without a prescription. Never share or trade your contact lenses with others. Remove contact lenses before any activity involving contact with water, including showering, using a hot tub or swimming. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience any pain, irritation, redness, blurriness or changes in your vision. For more information on the safe use of contact lenses or to join the group's online discussion forum, please visit www.preventblindness.org or call 1-800-331-2020. For additional information on the contact lens solution product recall, please go to www.cdc.gov. Prevent Blindness Ohio is celebrating 50 years as Ohio's leading volunteer nonprofit public health organization dedicated to preventing blindness and preserving sight. Founded in 1957 by U.S. Senator John Bricker and Lion's Club Member, Bob Morrison with support from Nationwide, the Ohio Department of Health and Delta Gamma Fraternity, PBO serves all 88 Ohio counties. We provide direct services to more than 800,000 Ohioans annually and educate millions of consumers about what they can do to protect and preserve their precious gift of sight. Prevent Blindness Ohio is an affiliate of Prevent Blindness America, the country's second-oldest national voluntary health organization. For more information or to make a contribution, visit our website at www.pbohio.org or call 800-301-2020. Top of Page 
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