As a child, I didn’t know I couldn’t see as well as everyone else, it wasn’t until I walked up to a clock at a swimming lesson to see what the time was that Mum realized there was a problem! It was discovered that I had myopia (short-sightedness) and I was promptly given a little pair of blue glasses. You may have had the same feeling I did when I found I could see the individual leaves on the trees – what a revelation!

In my adolescence, my glasses were relegated to the drawer because I now had new soft contact lenses.  It made such a difference to my life, for playing sport and boosting my self confidence as well. It was around this time that it became obvious that my school years would not last forever and I had to decide upon a career path.  I knew I wanted a profession in which I could help people, and Optometry fit the bill.

During my years of study and practice, in my family alone, I have found and diagnosed proliferative diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, cataract myopia, presbyopia and dry eyes; I have encouraged sun protection with sunglasses, prescribed various contact lenses, safety glasses and prescription goggles (no more squinting at the clock at swimming lessons!). For my clients I have done this and more.

I see myself as part of a team that cares for the visual requirements and visual health of our clients, working both with GP’s and Ophthalmologists to give the best outcome possible. I enjoy my work and it makes me happy to find a solutions to help people see better now and into the future.

Vivienne Price

Optometrist