Adventurer Aron Ralston named Optometry’s Meeting® 2018 keynote speaker
His harrowing survival tale is the stuff of legends, but Aron Ralston is no myth—just an ordinary man pushed to extraordinary limits. Now, come experience the story behind the headlines, from the ill-fated adventurer himself, at Optometry's Meeting ®.
An experienced climber and avid outdoorsman, Ralston captured international headlines in 2003 after a canyoneering accident in Utah left him trapped between two boulders in a remote location for more than five days. Ultimately, Ralston freed himself by severing his own arm with a pocketknife. Ralston recounts that story in his New York Times best-selling book, "Between a Rock and a Hard Place," which inspired the major motion picture, "127 Hours," starring James Franco.
Optometry's Meeting is proud to announce that the adventurer-turned-inspirational-speaker will present the keynote address at the Opening General Session, sponsored by Johnson & Johnson Vision, on June 20, in Denver, Colorado.
On stage, Ralston brings his gripping story to life. With candor and humility, Ralston reflects on his remarkable triumph over insurmountable odds and shares the lessons he learned about the importance of examining one's priorities and outlook on life. Take away a true appreciation for the power of the human spirit and the value of relationships to overcome life's challenges, no matter how large or daunting one's "boulder" may be.
Among the most anticipated events of the year, the Opening General Session also features the 2018 AOA Annual Awards Ceremony and messages from profession leaders. And be sure to catch Saturday's Celebration of Optometry, sponsored by Hoya, with comedian and TV star Howie Mandel.
Optometry's Meeting in Denver, Colorado
Come join the excitement as Denver, Colorado, hosts the 121st Annual AOA Congress and 48th Annual AOSA Conference: Optometry's Meeting, June 20-24, at the Colorado Convention Center. The perfect opportunity for doctors of optometry, students and paraoptometrics to make a positive impact on their career and profession, Optometry's Meeting offers five days of the latest continuing education, more than 100 networking opportunities and a chance to see advocacy in action with AOA's House of Delegates.
Seeing the eclipse, and the AOA, everywhere
Ahead of this year’s total solar eclipse, the AOA and doctors of optometry jumped in early and often to educate the public about eye safety.
Optometric surgical procedures highlighted at this year’s Optometry’s Meeting®
Attendees will have a variety of optometric surgical courses and workshops available at this year’s Optometry’s Meeting® to bolster the capabilities of the professional and improve overall patient care.
Leading AI authority Tom Lawry to keynote Optometry’s Meeting®
Lawry has a distinguished background in implementing AI solutions to enhance patient care and optimize care delivery. Hear Lawry’s keynote at the AOA Experience: Opening Session, supported by Johnson & Johnson Vision, on June 19.