Cancer survivor raises awareness using custom soccer themed prosthetic eye

Ryan Gibson chose to raise awareness about ocular melanoma by wearing a prosthetic eye decorated with the logo of his favorite professional soccer team, Bayern Munich, Upper Michigan's Source reported. Gibson received official clearance from the German soccer club before unveiling the custom ocular prosthesis. [1]

Gibson faced the decision after surgeons removed his right eye due to ocular melanoma. Upper Michigan's Source reported that Gibson preferred to make a bold statement to raise awareness rather than wear a traditional prosthetic that blended in. [1]

According to Upper Michigan's Source, ocular melanoma is a rare condition that affects only five or six individuals out of every million people each year. The cancer originates in specialized cells responsible for producing melanin, which provides pigment for the skin and eyes. [1]

Upper Michigan's Source noted that Gibson uses his distinctive prosthetic eye to highlight the importance of routine eye exams, which can detect rare medical conditions early. [1]