Terrence

Starting age: 10 years old

Years of Ortho-K use: 11 years

Starting Prescription:
Right eye: -1.50 -0.25 x 073
Left eye: -1.00 -0.25 x 080

Total Prescription change on Ortho-K:
2.25 diopters increase in both eyes over 11 years of Ortho-K use.

Hobbies and Interests:
● Majoring in political science and linguistics at UCSB
● Interested in foreign languages, traveling, and learning about other cultures. Currently learning German.
● Part of an acapella group. He enjoys playing the piano and guitar.
● Exercise and outdoor activities

1) How has Dr. Lo and the staff at East Bay Vision Center helped shape your experience with Ortho-K?
“Dr. lo is very knowledgeable, approachable and friendly. I feel like I can tell her whatever problem I'm having. She has a very personal relationship with my mom and me, and she always asks how my family is doing.”

2) Personally, what benefits of Ortho-K are you happiest about?
“I detest glasses and just prefer not having to put in contacts during the day. Ortho-K is magical. I like it when people are surprised to find out that I can't see - I’m secretive about it.”

“They’re also great for traveling. It’s super compact and one less thing to worry about when I'm out and about. I can see everything clearly and enjoy my vacation. When I did sports in highschool I could see the lanes, and when I work out now it’s beneficial to not have to wear glasses to see.”

3) Any tips for traveling with Ortho-K lenses?”
“I always make sure to bring extra contact lens solution, a backup pair of CRT lenses, and the plunger to remove the lenses. It's one of the most important things to me - when I leave the hotel, I always check for my phone, keys, wallet, and my Ortho-K.”

4) What was your experience like learning to use Ortho-K lenses and how would you describe your comfort with the contact lenses now?
“I had challenges learning to use them because I was scared of touching my eyes (I was really young). I remember crying and Dr. Lo and my mom were there with me. I went home and said I didn't want to do it, but my mom talked me into not giving up so fast. Once i got used to it, it was really simple.”

5) What would you tell someone younger who has been recommended Ortho-K treatment by their optometrist, but they are on-the-fence about committing to it?
“I think it is underrated and a good option. It’s not for everyone, but it's for more people than who currently know about it. I tell my friends, and they wish they were able to start this when they were 10 like I did.”