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12/08/2025

In this interview, we break down why low-dose atropine, not FDA-approved, has become one of the most important discussions in myopia control this year. Dr. Jennifer Lyerly and Dr. Daryl Glover sit with myopia expert Dr. Ashley Wallace-Tucker to analyze the STAR Study, the FDA’s request for additional data, and what this means for clinicians prescribing low-dose atropine off-label.

Dr. Lyerly also reviews landmark atropine studies — including ATOM, LAMP, and LAMP-II — that have shaped the global understanding of atropine’s effectiveness in slowing myopia progression. These foundational studies are contrasted with the STAR Study to help clinicians understand why results differed and what matters most in practice today

12/08/2025

Despite the headlines, low-dose atropine remains one of the most researched and successfully used off-label treatments worldwide. The STAR Study raised questionsbut not its clinical value.

In this Defocus Media episode, Dr. Jennifer Lyerly and Dr. Ashley Wallace-Tucker about what these shifts truly mean. As awareness and marketing grow, more families will finally understand the full range of myopia control options available for their children.

12/07/2025

Recent CLI data shows a gap in contact lens wear between Gen Z and social responsibility is a major factor driving Gen Z decisions. At Vision Expo West, Andrew Bruce, Dr. Jade Coats, and Jennifer Seymour highlighted what this means for our practices: patients want to do good but they have to know how.

12/06/2025

Optometry school isn’t easy — but Dr. Toby reminds us of what really keeps you going: remember your “why,” find joy outside the classroom, and lean on your village. Networking, community, and the people who support you make all the difference on the tough days.

12/05/2025

On this week’s OD’ing on Movies, Dr. Cleaver breaks down if your eyes can actually change color. From congenital differences to conditions like Horner’s syndrome or even inflammation from herpes that can alter the iris over time. Eye color shifts are rare, but when they happen, they usually tell a clinical story.

Earlier this year, 8-year-old Annabeth Baah went in for her annual physical. A note about weakness in her left eye led h...
12/04/2025

Earlier this year, 8-year-old Annabeth Baah went in for her annual physical. A note about weakness in her left eye led her dad, Kwabena, to take her for a same-day eye exam “just to be safe.” She didn’t even need glasses — but something else stood out.

Dr. Jeffrey Cohen, Lead Optometrist for the Greater Albany Area at Visionworks, noticed significant swelling of Annabeth’s optic nerve and immediately urged the family to go straight to the emergency room. When the initial visit didn’t lead to admission, Dr. Cohen followed up personally and pushed for urgent evaluation at a pediatric hospital with ophthalmology care.

After Annabeth was transferred, doctors confirmed the diagnosis: a craniopharyngioma — a large but benign brain tumor.

A routine eye exam didn’t just protect her sight — it helped save her life.

Congratulations to Dr. Jeffrey Cohen for his vigilance, advocacy, and commitment to patient care. This is the true impact of optometry.

Sources: People.com; Boston Children’s Hospital — Craniopharyngioma overview

12/03/2025

Introducing presbyopia drops shouldn’t be intimidating. As Dr. Derek Cunningham explains, our job isn’t to decide who will love them, it’s simply to offer the option.

Don’t let patients look back in a year and wonder why no one ever told them. Set expectations, document the peripheral retina, avoid high myopes, and make presbyopia drops part of the standard conversation alongside glasses, contacts, and surgery.

12/03/2025

It’s tough hearing patients say, “Why didn’t anyone ever tell me this was an option?” because every patient deserves the full picture.

Dr. Derek Cunningham emphasizes making all vision correction options part of the conversation from day one — glasses, contacts, surgery, and presbyopia drops — so patients can choose the freedom that fits their life.

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12/02/2025

In this episode of Play Chess, Not Checkers, Dr. Lauretta Justin shares how grit, self-belief, and understanding who you are can shape your entire career. Her journey is a masterclass in becoming the CEO of You. Starting with your values, purpose, and mindset.

Tune in for a powerful story of resilience and reinvention.

12/01/2025

It’s tough hearing patients say, “Why didn’t anyone ever tell me this was an option?” because every patient deserves the full picture.

Dr. Derek Cunningham emphasizes making all vision correction options part of the conversation from day one — glasses, contacts, surgery, and presbyopia drops — so patients can choose the freedom that fits their life.

11/27/2025

Real talk from Dr. Vitto Mena: the best investment a young optometrist can make isn’t in the S&P 500, crypto or real estate, it’s in yourself.

From sports vision to Special Olympics, he reminds us that your network is your net worth and that real wealth comes from creating value for others. When you invest in your growth, your skills, and your relationships, the dividends always follow.

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