As Thanksgiving approaches, it’s a perfect time to reflect on the profound impact optometrists have on their patients’ lives. Lisa Wahl, OD, FAAO, and John Nishimoto, OD, MBA, two doctors at Ketchum Health, the patient care and clinical teaching facility of Marshall B. Ketchum University, share standout patient stories that illustrate the enduring value of their profession and why they’re grateful to be part of this journey.
HELPING A YOUNG PATIENT FIND HER VISION—AND HERSELF
Early in her career, Dr. Wahl encountered a 17-year-old patient with newly diagnosed keratoconus. The patient’s rapid vision loss, coupled with untreated vision correction and personal struggles, left her unmotivated and detached. Dr. Wahl began the challenging process of fitting her with scleral lenses.
“My first encounter with her was rough,” says Dr. Wahl. “She came in with her mother and the tension in the air was palpable. Her attitude was apathetic, and getting a response was difficult.” Dr. Wahl also learned that she was doing poorly in school and suffering from depression and anxiety. “I recommended we try scleral lenses just to see what happens.” After weeks of fittings and adjustments, the patient achieved 20/20 vision but still seemed indifferent.
Eighteen months later, the same patient returned transformed. “She was unrecognizable—smiling, taking classes and even driving herself to the appointment,” says Dr. Wahl. “She had taken charge of her life.”
This experience reaffirmed for Dr. Wahl the far-reaching effects of restoring vision. “Good vision is essential for thriving in life, from excelling in school or work to reaching personal milestones like getting a driver’s license. For this patient, it also meant reconnecting with the world and rediscovering her place in it,” she says.
Dr. Wahl sees the broader mission of optometry in this story. “Optometry goes beyond glasses and contact lenses. We often detect systemic health conditions and improve quality of life in intangible ways. Correcting vision can create a ripple effect, giving patients a renewed sense of possibility and connection.”
A DECADES-LONG JOURNEY OF TRUST AND SIGHT PRESERVATION
Dr. Nishimoto reflects on a patient he began treating in his early 60s for glaucoma, a condition that had blinded most of his family members. The patient was understandably fearful of losing his vision, but Dr. Nishimoto took a proactive approach to treatment.
“Through regular checkups and a consistent treatment plan, we’ve controlled his condition for over two decades,” says Dr. Nishimoto. Now in his late 80s, the patient has maintained excellent vision with minimal impact from glaucoma.
The trust built over years has been deeply meaningful for Dr. Nishimoto. “Knowing I played a role in preserving his sight and transforming his quality of life is incredibly rewarding,” he says. “Today, we have a warm, friendly relationship rooted in mutual respect.”
Dr. Nishimoto believes this case highlights the critical role of optometrists in both vision and overall health. “Optometrists are integral to preventing and managing serious eye conditions and systemic health issues. It motivates me to ensure our profession’s role remains recognized and valued.”
GRATEFUL FOR A PROFESSION THAT TRANSFORMS LIVES
Both Dr. Wahl and Dr. Nishimoto emphasize how their experiences reflect the deeper mission of optometry. Beyond the clinical victories, their stories showcase the quiet but powerful ways vision care can change lives. This Thanksgiving, they are grateful for the opportunity to serve their patients and make a lasting difference.
