WGW Patient Ambassador
A vision worth fighting for: Jon Secada on early detection, family history, and hope for the future
Cuban-born, Miami-raised, and celebrated across the world, Jon Secada is one of the most influential Latin voices of his generation. His music career – spanning more than 30 years, multiple Grammy Awards, and collaborations with global icons – has shaped the trajectory of Latin crossover music.
Widely recognized by the media as the “Latin Crossover King,” Jon helped open the door for countless Latin artists entering the mainstream since the early 1990s. Today, he lends his voice to a different kind of stage: patient advocacy. As the World Glaucoma Association’s first World Glaucoma Week campaign advocate, Jon shares his personal journey with glaucoma – one deeply rooted in family history, early diagnosis, and steadfast commitment to treatment.
Jon’s Story
My journey with glaucoma began before I even knew I had the disease. It began with my father. When he was diagnosed later in life, I accompanied him to his first appointments at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute in Miami.
I remember learning that significant damage had already occurred – damage he hadn’t noticed at all.
That was my first real encounter with the reality of glaucoma: a disease that steals vision quietly, often without symptoms.
Because glaucoma existed on my father’s side of the family, the doctor encouraged me to get screened. I was in my late 20s, and after a few evaluations, I received my own diagnosis in my early 30s.
That early detection became the foundation of my long-term management. It allowed me to continue my life, my career, and my passion for performing without interruption for many years.
From the outset, I made a commitment to take my treatment seriously. Regular appointments, medications, check-ups – I followed everything diligently.
For decades, my visual field remained stable. I was able to live normally, raise my children, and continue performing worldwide without noticing substantial changes in my sight.
But glaucoma is unpredictable.
About six years ago, the disease progressed rapidly, despite consistently normal eye pressure – a detail that puzzled my doctors.
What followed were years of intensified treatment: advanced pressure management, surgical interventions including trabeculectomy, and ongoing monitoring to preserve what vision I have.
My right eye has experienced significant loss, and my left eye – the better of the two – has undergone surgery to contain further damage.
These changes have altered my daily life, but they have not diminished my resolve. I remain fully committed to my care, because that commitment has made all the difference.
I share my story because glaucoma is often invisible until it’s advanced.
Many people, especially those with a family history, don’t realize they are at risk. Early detection is not just important – it’s life-changing. It has allowed me to preserve my vision for more than 30 years, and it’s the reason I can continue doing the work I love.
I’m also hopeful. Advances in research – including emerging stem cell studies – offer real promise for the future.
I believe deeply that we are moving closer to treatments that may halt progression more effectively, and perhaps one day, even restore some of what has been lost.
Until then, the most powerful tool we have is action:
Get your eyes checked. Know your family history. Stay engaged with your care.
Glaucoma may be the silent thief of sight — but with awareness, early detection, and commitment, we can fight back.
Want more information about glaucoma for you or your loved one?
Visit the Glaucoma Patients Information Hub