Dr. Will Flanary

Dr. William E. Flanary, known as Dr. Glaucomflecken online, is an American ophthalmologist and comedian. He was in his 4th year of medical school in 2012 when he discovered he had testicular cancer. This marked the beginning of a challenging journey involving extensive treatments and a reevaluation of his future in both his personal life and medical career. Despite these challenges, he has survived testicular cancer twice and also recovered from a cardiac arrest, thanks to the timely CPR administered by his wife, Kristin Flanary.

After his second bout with cancer, Flanary found solace and physical rehabilitation in First Descents, a non-profit providing outdoor experiences for young adults diagnosed with cancer. Since his initial involvement in 2017, he has become an advocate for the organization, helping to raise over $100,000 through his social media platforms, which entertain over 4 million followers with his medical-themed comedy shorts. His unique blend of humor includes satirical takes on the US healthcare system, academic publishing, and medical interpersonal conflicts.

Flanary is not only an active social media figure but also a recognized speaker in the medical community. He frequently delivers keynote presentations at major medical events on topics such as "Humor & Humanity in Medicine," "Social Media for the Medical Professional," "The Patient Experience in the US Healthcare System," and "Ophthalmology for the Non-Ophthalmologist." Notably, he co-presents several of these keynotes with his wife, focusing on their personal experiences with cancer, cardiac arrest, and navigating the healthcare system. Their presentations, often enhanced with multimedia elements, have garnered accolades for their emotional impact and effectiveness, including recognition from the Society of Critical Care Medicine and the Australian Society of Infectious Diseases.

Currently residing and practicing in Clackamas County, Oregon, Flanary continues to contribute to the medical field not just through his clinical expertise but also by promoting a more humane approach to healthcare. His efforts extend beyond professional boundaries, aiming to educate and improve patient and family care experiences through his engaging, heartfelt storytelling.