Jamie McCourt Battles Infection

Dodger co-owner Jamie McCourt might have been permanently blinded in her right eye after contracting a bacterial infection last month that has prevented her from attending games at Dodger Stadium.

McCourt, 50, has been diagnosed with a corneal ulcer, a painful condition that has rendered her blind in her right eye. She is believed to have contracted the disorder last month when bacteria infiltrated her eye during one of her daily swims.

The ulcer has necessitated daily doctor visits and treatments, including hourly antibiotic eye drops. It is unknown if she will be able to regain full or partial vision.

“My doctors have taken a very aggressive treatment regimen in combating this infection,” McCourt said in a statement. “I have no intention of allowing this condition to hinder my commitment to the team, and I hope to return to the ballpark by the next homestand.”

Speaking about the infection that afflicts McCourt, Anthony J. Aldave, an assistant professor of ophthalmology and director of the Corneal and External Ocular Diseases and Refractive Surgery Fellowship at UCLA, said it can require a corneal transplant if there is significant scarring.

Dodger vice president of communications Gary Miereanu said Jamie has maintained an active role in running the team from her home office in Holmby Hills.

“We bought the Dodgers with the intent of being very active owners, which includes attending every home game,” Jamie said in a statement. “It’s breaking my heart not to be part of the excitement at the stadium.”

McCourt family friend Caroline Cunningham said being involved should expedite the healing process for Jamie.

“She’s probably doing more than she should do because she doesn’t want to miss anything,” Cunningham said. “Her normal life operates at 150%, so now I think she’s operating at less than 100%, and for her that seems like a difficult thing.”