Dr. David Black graduated from York University in 2000 with an Honours Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology and Psychology. He then graduated from the University of Waterloo, School of Optometry in 2004.
Born and raised in Toronto, Dr. Black grew up next door to Dr. Stan Salsberg, the founder of Eyes on Sheppard. Dr. Stan’s family was like a second family to him. Dr. Black was exposed to the profession from a young age, through his “adoptive” Salsberg family, and as a patient needing glasses from the age of 6. His interest in health sciences and technology as a University student solidified his direction into the profession.
For the past 11 years, Dr. Black has also been at the cutting edge of ocular surgical technology through working part-time at the world-renowned Bochner Eye Institute, alongside Dr. Ray Stein and Dr. Albert Cheskes. At Bochner, Dr. Black provides post-surgical care for patients who have undergone LASIK and other refractive surgeries, cataract surgery, and corneal collagen crosslinking (for the treatment of keratoconus). During his time there, he has gained expertise in the various surgical options available and determining which patients are best suited to each procedure, in addition to managing post-surgical issues.
Dr. Black has an excellent rapport with children and is an advocate of the importance of children’s eye exams by the age of 3.
Outside of work, he enjoys physical activities and sports, including running and playing baseball. He is a die-hard fan of the Toronto Blue Jays and follows the team very closely, hoping for another World Series Championship. In 2014, he participated in a Charity Fundraiser on the field at the Rogers Centre with his good friend and colleague, Dr. Kerry Salsberg.
Dr. Black has been happily married for over 10 years to Sara and has 2 children, AJ and Joely, who keep him busy and fill his home with laughter and joy.
A word from Dr. Black;
A patient story that really stands out for me is when an old school friend brought her two daughters to see me for their first eye exams. She did not have any particular concerns about their eyes or vision.
The younger daughter, age 3, had good vision, but upon close examination of her eyes revealed early internal inflammation. I referred her to Sick Kids Hospital, where she quickly received treatment for the inflammation and continues to be closely monitored by a rheumatologist.
Through early detection of this rare finding, I was able to help prevent possible ocular and vision complications, had the inflammation gone on for longer. This is one example of many that show how a simple eye exam can help prevent serious health issues in a child.
