It's been a stressful, emotional day, but so rewarding for William Fleming and his family. Fleming underwent surgery to save his sight thanks to someone who donated $18,000 following a social media request.
Fleming wanted Los Angeles eye surgeon Dr. Brian Boxer Wachler to perform the surgery for keratoconus, a degenerative eye disease, because Dr. Brian, as he's known, invented a machine and procedure just for this disease. He has a 10 year track record of success.
William's fiancée, Nina, watched nervously, nearby during the procedures. She did all the research and found Dr. Brian.
"I feel great; I can see everything, seen the doctor, didn't see him before," Fleming said.
The couple lives in San Jose with their five children. Fleming was worried about not being able to watch his kids grow up and provide for them. He's a caregiver for his fiancée's disabled brother, who has cerebral palsy.
Fleming's family tried fundraising, but didn't have much success. Then, his fiancée's mother messaged me on Facebook asking for help.
I sent out a tweet and didn't expect anything. But that's when a miracle happened.
"I came to know William because of Cheryl; someone saw her plea and was moved by his story, wwanted to remain anonymous because he's high profile," Dr. Brian said. "Now William can live his life the way it's meant to be lived."
"I thank them from the bottom of my heart," Fleming said.
I imagine Fleming and Nina are celebrating. He goes back for a checkup on Friday.
