The only thing more important to a Top Fuel driver than talent is the ability to see. For a period of nearly a year, newly christened Top Fuel driver Terry McMillen had that taken away from him.

McMillen's eyesight woes began late in 2005 after successfully licensing to be a Top Fuel driver. He gained valuable help from Evan Knoll, but even his employer/sponsor couldn't assist him in this battle.

 

 

The only thing more important to a Top Fuel driver than talent is the ability to see. For a period of nearly a year, newly christened Top Fuel driver Terry McMillen had that taken away from him.

McMillen's eyesight woes began late in 2005 after successfully licensing to be a Top Fuel driver. He gained valuable help from Evan Knoll, but even his employer/sponsor couldn't assist him in this battle.

McMillen's eye-sight became blurred after a successful debut in Rockingham and immediately sought treatment from eye specialists. The general consensus among the physicians was a rare fungal eye infection (Fusarium Keratitis). Their diagnosis pointed to use of Bausch & Lomb's ReNu with Moisture Loc product. The injury required McMillen to undergo corneal replacement and lens surgery. It would sideline McMillen's Top Fuel hopes for the 2006 season.

McMillen was cleared to drive prior to the season following a successful recuperation.

"Having this eye problem is a whole lot scarier than anything that I have ever experienced in a race car," McMillen said. "It really made me think about my career and how tough it would be to give up something I love so much. The interaction I have with our fans and our marketing partners is priceless. I've certainly learned to appreciate every opportunity I have to be around the race track."

Stay tuned for an in-depth article by Torco's CompetitionPlus.com that details McMillen's ordeal.