Independent optometry flourishes when doctors have the freedom to practice on their own terms—without feeling like they’re doing it alone. That belief is at the core of IDOC’s brand refresh, “Independent. Together.” In a recent Defocus Media conversation, hosts Dr. Darryl Glover and Dr. Jenn Lyerly spoke with Dave Brown, CEO of IDOC (Independent Doctors of Optometric Care), about the organization’s 25-year journey. Brown shared how IDOC’s unified brand, robust data tools, and comprehensive business services are helping private practice optometry become stronger, more connected, and better positioned for long-term growth.







Topics Covered From 15 Doctors to a National NetworkWhat “Independent. Together.” Actually DeliversPrivate Equity ExplainedSolving What Hurts: Staff, Time, and GrowthChoosing an Alliance When You Value IndependenceHow to Engage Doctors and Teams



From 15 Doctors to a National Network



IDOC began as a 15-doctor roundtable founded by Dr. Mark Feder in Connecticut—an early recognition that independent doctors could accelerate their success by learning from one another. That study-group DNA still defines the organization: peer conversation, practical business education, and an emphasis on implementing what works in real practices.



Over the past decade, IDOC layered on capabilities that move beyond community into execution:




* Consulting & Advisory: Building on acquisitions like Prima, IDOC offers structured guidance for finance, operations, HR, and strategy.



* Data Access & Benchmarking: Every member receives access to GPN Edge at IDOC’s cost, enabling accurate reporting and peer comparisons to spot gaps and opportunities.



* Contact Lens Performance: Programs such as IDOC Select and IDOC Vantage help practices track and grow the contact lens business based on share and momentum—not guesswork.



* Books & Benchmarks: IDOC’s team closes the monthly books and delivers benchmarked dashboards so owners can manage by numbers instead of gut feel.



* Optometry Marketing Services: Websites, SEO, and patient acquisition programs designed for independent brands.




As Dr. Lyerly notes on the podcast, the original roundtable energy lives on in today’s national schedule of in-person study groups and weekly virtual “Connected Conversations,” where doctors troubleshoot staffing, scheduling, and growth together.



What “Independent. Together.” Actually Delivers



Brand lines are only useful if they change outcomes. For Dave Brown, “Independent. Together.” signals two promises:




* Independent: Doctors maintain brand, clinical focus, and day-to-day decision-making—whether that’s myopia management, advanced dry eye, neuro-visual rehab, specialty contact lenses, or a heavy medical model.



* Together: Members gain the leverage of a larger collective—shared data, national vendor conversations, a dedicated independent lab (Three Rivers Optical under IDOC Labs), and a community that accelerates real-world implementation.




The refreshed,

Key Takeaways




* What is Izervay used for: Izervay (avacincaptad pegol) is FDA-approved to slow the progression of geographic atrophy secondary to age-related macular degeneration, preserving vision for longer.



* Izervay mechanism of action: By inhibiting complement protein C5, Izervay helps reduce retinal cell death, offering patients a proactive way to protect their remaining vision.



* Teamwork matters: Optometrist–ophthalmologist collaboration ensures timely detection, clear patient education, and consistent messaging, leading to better treatment adherence and outcomes.








In Partnership with Astellas



Geographic atrophy (GA) is advancing into everyday optometric practice—and the timing of what happens after detection matters. In this Four-Eyed Professor episode, Chris Lievens, OD, MS, FAAO, welcomes retina specialist Jessica Haynes, OD, FAAO, to explore how geographic atrophy should be identified, how to talk about it, and when to act. From referral timing to patient counseling around Izervay (avacincaptad pegol) and other complement inhibitor therapies, they share a clinic-tested approach that helps clinicians protect vision now while preparing patients for what’s next.



Table of ContentsWhy Naming “Geographic Atrophy” MattersFirst-visit game plan: Educate, Don’t OverwhelmShifting From “Wait and See” to “Detect and Act”Talking Treatments: Set Expectations, Preserve TrustThe Timing Question: When to Start and Why “Now”Breaking the “Wait and See” Habit: Team WorkflowFinding the Balance: Urgency Without Fear



Why Naming “Geographic Atrophy” Matters



Geographic atrophy awareness is growing thanks to consumer campaigns, but many patients still arrive unfamiliar with the term. Dr. Haynes recommends using the exact diagnosis—geographic atrophy—instead of only euphemisms like “blind spots” or “degeneration.” Naming the disease validates the condition, provides patients with language to research resources, and ensures consistency when transitioning to ophthalmology referral.



Action in clinic: Use “geographic atrophy” in your first two sentences. Then add a plain-language anchor: “GA is an advanced stage of dry macular degeneration where patches of retinal tissue thin and stop working.”



First-visit game plan: Educate, Don’t Overwhelm



The first appointment often determines long-term adherence. Dr. Haynes’s approach:




* Define GA simply. Frame it as accelerated age-related thinning of retinal tissue that creates “bald patches” in vision.



* Cover modifiable factors. Nutrition, systemic health, and visual habits remain relevant for retinal wellness.



* Introduce treatment without pressure. Outline that therapies such as Izervay exist to slow progression, not reverse damage. When asked what is Izervay used for, explain it is FDA-approved to slow the progression of geographic atrophy secondary to age-related macular degeneration.



* Normalize a paced decision.

Empathy in optometry goes far beyond polite conversation—it’s a clinical skill that builds trust, improves compliance, and defines the overall patient experience. In Episode 50 of the Depth Perception Podcast, Dr. Svetlana Nunez, Dr. Jasdeep Singh, Dr. Nadia Afkhami, and Dr. Douglas Akidi dive into how empathy shapes patient care. They discuss how to navigate emotional encounters, maintain schedules, and build genuine human connections in the exam room—all while delivering excellent clinical outcomes.



Topics Covered Why Patients Remember Feelings More Than FindingsStaying on Schedule Without Shutting Down StoriesHandling Grief, Anxiety, and Tough News in the LaneMirroring Styles While Staying AuthenticLanguage, Culture, and Building Psychological SafetyTurning Listening Into Actionable Care PlansProtecting Your Energy So You Can Show Up for Patients



Why Patients Remember Feelings More Than Findings



Dr. Jasdeep Singh explains that patients often evaluate their care experience not by the prescription or the accuracy of their refraction, but by how they felt during the exam. Empathy and personality leave a lasting impression that builds loyalty and trust. When a patient feels heard, they are more likely to follow treatment recommendations and return for follow-up care.



In Practice:




* Start each encounter with a sincere, “How are you today?” and pause to truly listen.



* Reflect what you hear (“That must be frustrating.”) before moving into the exam.



* Use warmth and eye contact to establish comfort before discussing findings.




Staying on Schedule Without Shutting Down Stories



Every doctor has faced the challenge of balancing compassion with time. Dr. Nadia Afkhami admits that when patients begin to share deeply emotional stories, she acknowledges their feelings but gently redirects the visit. “I’ll hold their hand for a moment if they need it,” she says, “and then start the exam so we can keep moving while they still feel supported.”



Dr. Jasdeep Singh takes a similar approach, emphasizing the art of redirection: acknowledge, transition, and revisit later. “I’ll say, ‘I’m glad you shared that—let’s make sure your eyes are doing well, then we’ll come back to that.’”



Handling Grief, Anxiety, and Tough News in the Lane



Dr. Svetlana Nunez recalls an encounter during her student years when a glaucoma patient burst into tears over red, irritated eyes caused by medication. Her instinct was to pause and offer a hug before walking the patient to the exam room. That small act of humanity turned a distressing moment into reassurance.



Dr. Jasdeep Singh shares that empathy often means giving patients space to process emotions. “When someone mentions losing a partner or loved one, I hand them a tissue, ask if they’d like a few minutes, and make sure they feel respected before we continue.”



Mirroring Styles While Staying Authentic



Dr. Nadia Afkhami believes successful exams require adapting tone and approach based on who’s in the chair. “I don’t do the same exam for a Gen Z patient that I do for a boomer,” she laughs.

Optometry is as much about people as it is about eyes. In a conversation with Dr. Darryl Glover, new graduate Dr. Svetlana Nunez traced a path from early inspiration to her first steps as an optometrist—highlighting family support, the realities of training, and the habits that sustain mental well-being. This companion article distills her story into practical guidance for clinics and classrooms alike, focusing on optometry student mental health, the experience of a first-generation optometrist, and everyday patient communication that builds trust and inspires the next generation.



Dr. Svetlana Nunez, Optometrist and Podcaster



Table of ContentsThe Spark: Family, Early Exposure, and ServiceFirst-Generation Perspective: Finding Roadmaps and Role ModelsPatient Communication that Travels Across LanguagesThe Grind Is Real: What Training Looks Like TodayProtecting Optometry Student Mental HealthBuilding Wise Counsel and Support SystemsInspiring Students and Young Doctors



The Spark: Family, Early Exposure, and Service



Dr. Nunez’s journey began with a family eye surgery that made vision care feel urgent and personal at a young age. By adolescence, she was shadowing clinics; in college, she founded a pre-optometry club and launched an eyeglass drive that supplied a nonprofit’s mission work. Selecting a school without a pre-optometry track meant building one—an early sign of leadership that later carried into her professional life. Documenting those efforts on social media expanded her network of mentors and role models and created a support system that continues to shape her career.



First-Generation Perspective: Finding Roadmaps and Role Models



As a first-generation optometrist, Dr. Nunez sought guidance outside of family traditions in medicine. Her parents, who immigrated from Mexico and Nicaragua, emphasized education but had little exposure to graduate training. She sought answers from recent graduates, the online optometry community, and mentors who could translate timelines, entrance exams, board preparation, externships, and financial realities. Naming the first-generation experience aloud—during interviews, orientations, and mentorship meetings—reduces the stigma of questions about money, timelines, and navigating the “hidden curriculum.” Clear roadmaps and near-peer role models help students see their future with less uncertainty and more agency.



Patient Communication that Travels Across Languages



A defining habit for Dr. Nunez is learning simple phrases in the languages her patients speak—greetings, basic anatomy words, and simple exam cues. Even a short “hello,” “look here,” or “any discomfort?” in a patient’s preferred language establishes respect and lowers anxiety. Language-aware communication is also community-aware: when patients feel seen and heard, their family members take notice, and younger relatives begin to imagine a place for themsel...

3 Key Takeaways




* Balancing Passion and Profit: A profitable eye care practice begins with purpose and consistency. Dr. Adam Young’s journey with First Class Eye Care shows that combining clinical excellence with an elevated patient experience leads to long-term loyalty and growth.



* Leadership Through Empowerment: Investing in team development and personalized training builds confidence, consistency, and performance. Dr. Young’s cross-training model strengthens staff communication and directly supports profitability and patient satisfaction.



* Partnerships That Elevate Care: Strategic collaboration and shared expertise can transform outcomes. By balancing glaucoma and dry eye care with specialty lenses and myopia management, Dr. Young and his wife demonstrate how teamwork can maximize efficiency and create a seamless patient experience.







In this episode of Play Chess Not Checkers, host Dr. Adam Ramsey sits down with Dr. Adam Young, founder of First Class Eye Care in Georgia. Dr. Young shares his story of persistence, growth, and purpose—from his roots at the University of Georgia and the Southern College of Optometry to building one of Atlanta’s standout private practices. His experience offers valuable insight into what it takes to turn vision into a sustainable and profitable eye care business.



Table of ContentsBuilding the FoundationTurning Vision Into RealityThe First Class ExperienceBuilding a Profitable Eye Care PracticeStaff Development and CulturePartnership in PracticeChallenges and GrowthAdvice for Future Optometrists



Building the Foundation



Dr. Young grew up driven by his mother’s expectation of excellence. That discipline carried him through the University of Georgia, where he learned to navigate new environments and engage with diverse perspectives. Later, at the Southern College of Optometry in Memphis, he developed communication skills that became central to his approach to patient care. He often reflects on how those early experiences prepared him to connect with patients, build trust, and understand the nuances of real-world practice.



Turning Vision Into Reality



During his time at SCO, Dr. Young created the name “First Class Eye Care” and even purchased the domain long before graduation. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, he used that period to transition from corporate optometry to entrepreneurship. He realized the importance of building something of his own—one that reflected his values of service, quality, and integrity. The result was a modern, patient-centered practice built to deliver exceptional care.



The First Class Experience



Every detail of First Class Eye Care is intentional. From advanced diagnostics to a boutique-style optical, Dr. Young’s focus is on making each visit memorable. Patients undergo thorough pre-testing, including topography-integrated autorefraction, visual field screening, and widefield imaging. The practice also offers OCT and axial length measurement for myopia management. By including technology that enhances efficiency and clinical outcomes, Dr. Young ensures his patients experience the value of comprehensive care.



Building a Profitable Eye Care Practice



Profitability, Dr. Young explains,

In an evolving healthcare landscape, conversations around scope modernization in optometry are more than professional discussions, they are about protecting patients and ensuring access to timely care. In this episode of The 2020 Podcast, host Dr. Harbir Sian sits down with Dr. Mark Eltis, President of the College of Optometrists of Ontario , to explore why optimizing scope is not only essential for the profession but for the health of the public.



The Purpose Behind Scope Optimization



For Dr. Eltis, expanding optometric scope is not about self-interest—it’s about patient-first care. When optometrists are unable to perform procedures they are trained to do, patients suffer. “It’s not practical,” he explains, “for a patient to be told, ‘You need this. I could do it, but I’m not allowed to.’”



Delays in care force patients to wait months for specialists whose time could be better spent managing more complex cases. The result: a bottleneck in the healthcare system that affects everyone—patients, optometrists, and ophthalmologists alike.



Optimizing scope allows optometrists to deliver necessary treatments efficiently, alleviating pressure on overburdened specialists while ensuring patients receive the right care, at the right time, from the right provider.



Education Before Legislation



Dr. Sian and Dr. Eltis both emphasize that education is the foundation for legislative change. The University of Waterloo continues to prepare new graduates with hands-on experience in advanced procedures—even beyond what current regulations allow.



At the same time, continuing education for practicing optometrists bridges the gap between training and implementation. Courses such as the Advanced Procedures Program, highlighted during the CAO Congress, offer clinicians the opportunity to learn techniques already used globally skills that align directly with patient needs and public health priorities.



As Dr. Sian noted, “Even if I don’t perform laser procedures in my clinic, I want to understand them. I want to be able to speak knowledgeably and encourage my colleagues. This is well within our wheelhouse.”



Same Tools, Same Textbooks, Same Philosophy



One of the most powerful moments in the conversation came when Dr. Eltis reminded listeners that optometry and ophthalmology are built on the same clinical foundation.




“It’s not a different philosophy. We use the same materials, the same techniques, and the same textbooks,” he explained.




This alignment reinforces that scope expansion is not about new or experimental care—it’s about allowing optometrists to perform procedures they already understand and are trained to do safely.



He also highlighted how optometrists’ daily familiarity with dry eye disease and ocular surface health offers a unique advantage: “We’re more attuned to subtle changes in the lids and meibomian glands. That sensitivity enhances patient outcomes.”



Knowing the Limits and the Opportunities



With expanded scope comes professional responsibility. Dr. Eltis underscored the importance of knowing one’s limits and referring when necessary, just as any specialist would.



Currently, optometrists in Ontario face restrictions in treating certain types of glaucoma and prescribing specific medications. These limitations, he argues, hinder efficient care. “If you know what tool to use but can’t access it, that’s a real problem,” he added.



The Future of Optometry: Innovation and Integration

Key Takeaways




* Early detection of geographic atrophy symptoms and GA lesions is critical. Using OCT and fundus autofluorescence allows optometrists to identify changes early and refer patients before significant vision loss occurs.



* Strong partnerships between optometrists and ophthalmologists improve outcomes. A smooth referral process ensures that patients with geographic atrophy of the eye or Izervay GA candidates receive timely evaluation and care.



* Setting realistic expectations about treatment builds patient trust. Clearly explaining what Izervay is used for and potential Izervay side effects helps patients understand that therapy slows progression rather than reversing damage.




Dr. Dan Bennett, Ophthalmologist at NC Retina



Geographic atrophy of the eye is a serious, progressive form of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) that can lead to irreversible vision loss. For many years, patients who asked “what is GA?” were told there was no effective treatment. Today, with FDA-approved therapies like Izervay are designed to slow disease progression, the responsibility falls on eye care professionals to identify geographic atrophy symptoms early and ensure patients enter the right care pathway. A clear referral process between optometrists and ophthalmologists is essential to deliver the best outcomes for patients with GA in eyes.



Table of ContentsThe Power of PartnershipCommunicating the GA DiagnosisImaging Essentials: OCT and Fundus PhotographySetting Treatment ExpectationsA Case Story of EmpowermentDesigning a Smooth HandoffPatient Education That Builds TrustMeasuring Success in Referral Pathways



The Power of Partnership



In a recent Defocus Media conversation, Dr. Darryl Glover and Dr. Jennifer Lyerly sat down with ophthalmologist and retina specialist Dr. Daniel Bennett to highlight how collaboration changes lives. Their discussion emphasized that optometrists and ophthalmologists are stronger when they work together. A trusted relationship—built on communication, timely referrals, and unified patient messaging—creates a patient journey that feels continuous and coordinated. For patients, that means confidence and better long-term outcomes when dealing with geographic atrophy AMD.



Communicating the GA Diagnosis



Delivering the news of geographic atrophy requires a careful balance. Patients who ask “what is GA of the eyes?” may fear blindness once they hear the term. The clinician’s role is to explain the diagnosis clearly without causing panic. Dr. Glover described his approach as treating every patient like a parent: compassionate, direct, and realistic. He shows retinal images, explains the risk of irreversible vision loss, and emphasizes that referral to a retina specialist is the safest next st...

Patients are asking about natural vision improvement more than ever—often hoping to cut dependence on glasses or contacts without surgery. Conventional training says that lasting change hinges on optical correction or surgical intervention; yet some functional, habit-based strategies may meaningfully improve comfort, acuity fluctuations, and visual performance in the real world. In this episode of the Eye-Q Podcast, neuro-ophthalmologist Dr. Rudrani Banik interviews Claudia Muehlenweg, founder of the Naturally Clear Vision Institute, to unpack what natural vision correction actually entails, where it aligns with clinical care, and how clinicians can guide patients safely and responsibly.



Topics CoveredVision vs. eyesight: reframing the discussionClaudia’s story: from childhood hyperopia to adult clarityMicro-habits that matter for computer vision syndromeOverminus and the case for effort-free clarityGuidance across refractive profiles



Vision vs. eyesight: reframing the discussion



The episode begins by distinguishing vision from eyesight. Eyesight reads the chart; vision is the lived experience—peripheral awareness, color, night performance, binocular stability, and comfort. Many of these elements are under-assessed in routine checks, yet they drive whether a patient can study longer, drive at night with confidence, or work all day at a computer without pain. Framing patient concerns in this broader context opens space for coaching on habits, not just lens power.



Claudia’s story: from childhood hyperopia to adult clarity



Claudia describes early hyperopia with accommodative esotropia, social stress, and a constant sense of strain. As a teenager she discovered a book on natural approaches that emphasized relaxation, blinking, gentle movement, outdoor light, and “palming” (cupping hands over closed eyes). She experienced short “clear flashes” that built confidence. Decades later, during a period of adult stress with presbyopia and astigmatism, she returned to these tools and worked with a teacher to systematize her approach—eventually creating the Naturally Clear Vision Method.



Micro-habits that matter for computer vision syndrome



Blinking more often (every 2–3 seconds) helps stabilize the tear film and counters “screen stare.”Palming (20–60 seconds): Rub hands, gently cup over closed eyes (no pressure), elbows supported, breathe slowly; remove hands first, then open with soft blinks and light squeezes. Many patients report immediate relief.“20–20” reset: Every ~20 minutes, rest for ~20 seconds by closing the eyes or palming instead of only looking 20 feet away.Match screen and room brightness: Avoid a bright monitor in a dark room that collapses peripheral vision.Environment: If possible, set the monitor so a small upward gaze looks into the distance (e.g., through a window), making far-focus glances effortless.



These steps are small, fast, and repeatable ideal for computer vision syndrome.



Overminus and the case for effort-free clarity



Dr. Banik shares her own experience with overminus, uncovered by a cycloplegic refraction that revealed she needed significantly less minus than she had worn for years. Performance anxiety in the phoropter can push patients to “choose sharper...

Key Takeaways




* Set expectations early by capturing patients from their very first interaction, positioning eyewear as an essential part of their care experience.



* Create an experience, not a sale: Guide patients through a curated optical journey focused on personalization and confidence, not just products.



* Lead by example: Collaboration between doctors and opticians—and wearing what you sell—builds trust, credibility, and inspires purchases.








In today’s challenging retail climate, opticians are asked to do more than sell frames—they must deliver a memorable experience that turns every interaction into a relationship. In this Defocus Media episode, Dr. Darryl Glover welcomes Mikki Collins, Business Development Manager for Buying Groups and Alliances at Safilo, to share her Top 5 Optical Sales Tips.



Mikki Collins


Collins’s career has spanned nearly every corner of eye care—from surgical assisting and practice management to eyewear sales and brand strategy. Her insights reveal that sustainable success in optical retail comes from communication, collaboration, and confidence.



Table of ContentsKey Takeaways1. Capture Patients from the First Interaction2. Solidify the Need for Eyewear3. Curate a Branded Optical Experience4. Strengthen the Doctor–Optician Partnership5. Wear What You SellSpotlight: Safilo 2026 CollectionGrowth Beyond the Comfort Zone



1. Capture Patients from the First Interaction



The sales process begins long before a patient reaches the optical area. Effective practices establish expectations during the scheduling and check-in phases. Reception teams can subtly reinforce the idea that eyewear selection is part of comprehensive eye care by asking whether patients wear glasses, reminding them to bring their eyewear, and discussing what they are looking for in a new pair.



This early engagement frames the optical visit as a continuation of the clinical experience rather than a separate retail event. It also helps set a tone of professionalism and ensures patients arrive ready to explore solutions, not just complete an exam.



2. Solidify the Need for Eyewear



Once patients are in the office, the focus should shift from selling products to understanding lifestyle needs. Asking about daily activities, hobbies, work environments, and upcoming events allows opticians to position eyewear as a personalized solution. These conversations reveal opportunities for second-pair recommendations, such as computer glasses, sunglasses, or specialty lenses for sports and reading.



By connecting the eyewear purchase to a patient’s individual lifestyle, opticians reinforce the medical and functional value of their recommendations while differentiating their services from online or discount retailers.



3. Curate a Branded Optical Experience



A cohesive and curated environment is one of the strongest tools for optical success. Collins emphasizes the importance of organization and branding within the frame gallery. Rather than letting patients browse aimlessly, she suggests conducting a short style consultation to identify color preferences, face shapes, and frame materials that best suit the wearer.

When horror meets humanity, and eye care meets empathy, you get something special. In this Reel Eyes Podcast episode, Dr. Jacobi Cleaver and Dr. Jacob Wilson explore the haunting Australian film Bring Her Back, directed by twins Dani and Michael Philippou. Known for their breakout hit Talk to Me, the Philippou brothers craft another deeply unsettling yet thought-provoking story that weaves together horror, symbolism, and the resilience of the human spirit.



But what makes this episode stand out isn’t just the movie’s chilling narrative—it’s the heartfelt discussion around representation and the remarkable performance of Sora Wong, a visually impaired actress living with coloboma and microphthalmia, who portrays the film’s young heroine, Piper.







Topics Covered The Intersection of Horror and HumanityThe Storyline Behind Bring Her BackAuthentic Representation in Film Optometry Meets Pop Culture: Coloboma and MicrophthalmiaReal-Life Lessons for Eye Care ProfessionalsSeeing Beyond the Screen



The Intersection of Horror and Humanity



The Reel Eyes Podcast exists where film analysis meets clinical insight, allowing optometrists to view pop culture through a new lens—literally. In Bring Her Back, Dr. Cleaver and Dr. Wilson dissect a horror film that offers far more than jump scares. Beneath its dark atmosphere lies an exploration of trauma, family bonds, and disability representation—subjects that resonate deeply within healthcare.



As Dr. Cleaver notes, “It gave us more than a typical horror movie—beyond the slash and gore, it had depth, backstory, and a message.”



The Storyline Behind Bring Her Back



Without spoiling too much, Bring Her Back centers on two orphaned siblings—Andy and his visually impaired sister, Piper—who are taken in by a foster mother with sinister secrets. The story dives into grief, manipulation, and resilience while blending supernatural rituals with raw human emotion.



Dr. Wilson describes it best: “This was one of the few horror films where creativity was unmatched—it reminded me why I love this genre.”



From disturbing rituals and familial dysfunction to one of the most unnerving scenes involving Piper’s blindness being weaponized by her abuser, the movie’s emotional intensity leaves viewers shaken—and deeply reflective.



Authentic Representation in Film



What truly elevates Bring Her Back is its casting choice. The lead actress, Sora Wong, isn’t just acting—she’s living the experience of visual impairment. Born with coloboma and microphthalmia, Wong’s authenticity brings a rare and powerful realism to the screen.



Dr. Cleaver highlights, “Hollywood can emulate anything, but the subtleties in her performance—the way one eye wandered, the way she moved—those are real. That’s lived experience.”



Her story is just as inspiring as her performance. With no acting background, Wong’s mother found an open casting call on Facebook for a visually impaired young female. Sora auditioned, landed the role, and transformed a Facebook scroll into a breakout acting debut.



Optometry Meets Pop Culture: Coloboma and Microphthalmia



For eye care professionals,