Having the opportunity to see well should not be considered a luxury. Yet, for many with vision problems who do not have insurance and cannot afford the out-of-pocket cost to see an optometrist, this necessity feels like a luxury.
For Shelly*, her consistent trouble with her eyesight was affecting her at work. As time went on, unable to afford the solution to the issue she said, “I kept getting scared I was going to get fired”. The cycle seemed endless: she worked hard to cover her and her son’s basic needs but would be short on hours when she would need to leave work early to nurse a migraine brought on by her struggling eyes. Less hours would cause her to be behind on bills and other daily needs—the possibility of seeing an eye doctor couldn’t even be on her radar.
For participants ages 19-64 who do not have insurance, the Eye Clinic at Lubbock Impact feels like a “gift from God” as Shelly says. Lubbock Impact’s Eye Clinic is run by optometrists who volunteer their time and expertise to serve those like Shelly.
Dr. Alberto Camacho, one of the Eye Clinic’s volunteer optometrists says he feels “lucky to be a part of Lubbock Impact.” In many ways, he represents the passion, care, and connection that all our volunteers bring to the clinics. Aside from his training and experience as an optometrist, Dr. Camacho is a Spanish speaker, bringing another level of care and connection to many participants. “Being bilingual and performing exams in Spanish is very rewarding to me” Dr. Camacho explained. “I can have conversations with patients about many things they may otherwise not have the opportunity to express or question.”
Shelly shared that her eye exam was a validating experience; her eyes were struggling, leading to her constant migraines. Through Lubbock Impact’s Eye Clinic, Shelly was able to receive an eye exam and a brand-new pair of glasses for free. “The smiles and heartfelt gratitude from patients after they select their new glasses is tough to put into words but is amazing,” Dr. Camacho expressed.
Lubbock Impact’s Eye Clinic is able to literally provide a new lens to see life through, easing fear and bringing hope, empowerment and healing to those in need.
*Participant name changed to protect privacy