#United States #St. Louis #Kike Hernández #American Optometric Association #Eye Deserve More

Kike Hernández Champions Eye Health with AOA

The American Optometric Association (AOA) has recently joined forces with professional baseball player Kike Hernández in a groundbreaking initiative aimed at promoting the importance of in-person eye examinations across the nation. This partnership is part of the AOA's ongoing campaign, Eye Deserve More, which emphasizes the need for comprehensive eye care as a vital component of overall health and well-being.

Kike Hernández’s journey underscores the significant role optometrists play in ensuring individuals maintain optimal eye health. After experiencing difficulties at the plate, Hernández was diagnosed with astigmatism during a visit to his optometrist. This diagnosis transformed his performance on the field and highlighted the necessity of regular eye examinations.

Hernández stated, "Last year, I struggled at the plate, and it became clear to me that something wasn’t right. After visiting an optometrist, my astigmatism was diagnosed, and it made all the difference for my performance this season." He emphasizes that while athletes often focus on their equipment and training, they sometimes neglect the health of their eyes, which are crucial for peak performance.

According to AOA's Doctor Emily Benson, O.D., top athletes must consider their vision as one of the most important tools in their arsenal. In her words, "Your eyes are your most powerful technology. Whether you're playing, navigating daily tasks, or spending time with family, comprehensive eye care is fundamental for maintaining that power."

Medical professionals stress that eyes perform numerous complex tasks, such as analyzing depth, motion, and spin before an athlete swings. Yet, many Americans overlook the importance of scheduling regular eye exams. Even with advancements in technology, common vision issues like astigmatism can go undetected through standard vision screenings.

Hernández's revelation about his eye condition serves as a reminder that elite athletes are not exempt from vision problems. His experience reveals that even a seemingly minor issue can have a major impact on performance. Additionally, Hernández also dealt with pterygium, a tissue growth often related to sun exposure, which further emphasizes the importance of eye health for athletes.

Despite a tech-driven culture where many people prioritize upgrading their gadgets over their health, AOA’s recent surveys reveal that a staggering 77% of Americans perceive the latest technology as essential. This technological obsession can overshadow essential aspects of personal health, particularly eye care.

In an effort to shed light on eye health, AOA has conceptualized The Eye, an educational tool designed to highlight the extraordinary capabilities and complexities of human eyesight. This conceptual product serves as a stark reminder that while technological advancements are impressive, nothing can replicate the intricate functions of our eyes.

Dr. Benson reminds us, "It’s time to refocus on eye health. Ensuring your eyes perform at their best starts with an in-person examination—a crucial step that can detect over 270 serious health conditions. This level of comprehensive assessment is not achievable through online tests or screenings."

Hernández’s personal narrative is a culmination of his realization about the significance of eye health, especially as he prepares to welcome a new child into his family. He passionately advocates for regular eye exams, encouraging teammates and friends to prioritize their eye health just as he has.

As the AOA continues to educate the public about the importance of in-person eye examinations, Hernández stands as a testament to the life-changing effects of proper eye care. For more details on maintaining eye health and the Eye Deserve More campaign, readers can explore resources available at SeeTheEye.com.

In summary, this collaborative effort between Kike Hernández and the AOA aims to inspire Americans to recognize their eyes as not just tools for vision but foundational elements of their health that warrant timely attention and care.