What Happened

Ren got the scare of his life when he learned his retina detached in his right eye, requiring an emergency ER visit and surgery to save his vision. This medical emergency was unexpected and frightening.

Details of the Eye Surgery and Post-Operation Recovery

Ren's surgery went well. The surgeon inserted a 2-month gas bubble in his eyeball to push and keep the retina in place.

The gas bubble will naturally dissipate over the next 2 months. Recovery doesn't stop there; after the gas bubble disappears, Ren's recovery may require another 4-6 months (further check-ups with surgeon, vision will be slow to fully come back). The surgeon also mentioned that Ren will require cataract removal surgery in the future.

Although he is in pain, he is recovering well and in high spirits and is appreciating all the love he has been receiving.

Now surgery is the easy part. Post-operation recovery is the hard part.

Because gravity keeps the gas bubble in place, Ren must lie face-down, all day (with breaks), everyday, until end of May. He is not allowed to lie on his back at all (because in doing so the gas would travel to the front of the eye rather than pressing against the back where the retina is located). He is on the no-fly list for 2 months (as gas expands at higher altitudes). Having to lie in the face-down position for most of the time is very uncomfortable for the back, however it is the optimal way for Ren's retina to heal.

The good news is, Ren's condition is progressing well each day and his 2 check-ups have gone well. His vision is getting ever-so-slightly better each day, but it could take 6 months for his vision to fully return. He will be able to perform light activities as time progresses (such as cooking or driving, but for short periods of time).

Per Doctor's Note

No-fly list for 2 months.

Must lie face-down for most of the day until end of May.

3/27-4/13: Ren may not work.

4/14-4/27: Ren to be placed on modified/light activity at home and work.

4/28: Ren can return to work at full capacity (will need to lie face-down when at home).

️Timeline of Events ️

March 21: Ren experienced vision loss in his right eye.

March 22: Ren visited his optometrist first thing in the morning; the optometrist told him that his retina had detached and to rush him over to the ER. The ER and determined that Ren would require emergency surgery this week in order to save his right-eye.

March 25: Visit with Dr.

March 27: Eye surgery

March 28: First check-up with Dr.

Apr 4: Second check-up with Dr.

Ren's vision has improved ever-so-slightly. He can see things within 6 inches of his face, but cannot distinguish any letters on an eye exam.

April 16: (future) Third check-up with Dr.

Now until end of May 2025: Ren will remain face-down for the majority of each day. He will not be able to work or fly during this time.

How You Can Help

Ren has suffered 4 bodily injuries in the past 6 years, and each time he has soldiered on and shown resilience in his recoveries. However, this particular incident was unexpected and sudden and because Ren is temporarily out of work and will need a few more months for vision to fully come back, we are reaching out to our community for the first time with a plea for help.

We are seeking a minimum of $10,000 to cover the costs of Ren's medical expenses, future cataract removal surgery, & living expenses while he is unable to work for the next 4 weeks (we live in South Bay Area, one of the most expensive places to live in the US).

Cost Breakdown

Co-pay for retinal reattachment surgery: $3,069

Future cataract removal surgery: ~$2,000

ER visit: $595

Visit with 1st doctor: $95

Visit with 2nd doctor: $95

Face Down Pillow: $65

Medication: $25

After the above medical expenses have been met, further funds will be used to cover Ren's living expenses while he is unable to work. Ex: bills, food, student loan payment, car payment, etc.

About Ren

Anyone who has met Ren can corroborate that he is a true blue character who respects everyone around him and makes everyone feel included.

Ren is a first-generation Filipino-American from Sunnyvale, CA. He is a founding member of award-winning A Slice of New York's (San Jose & Sunnyvale) employee-owned business model. He is also a music producer.

Thank You

Thank you for your donations, thoughts, and well wishes as we navigate this challenging time.

We completely understand if you are not in a position to donate. If you would like to help in other ways, please share this gofundme with your network. Every contribution makes a positive difference in Ren's recovery!