Reconnecting With Why We Do What We Do

Optometry has always felt like the perfect intersection of science, service, and human connection. I love that our work allows us to prevent, protect, and restore something as essential as sight—but also to form deep, long-term relationships. The doctor-patient bond in eye care is special; we see our patients year after year, through all stages of life. I still remember how my childhood optometrist made me feel seen and cared for. He wasn’t just checking my eyes—he was invested. That sense of continuity and trust is what drew me to this field, and ultimately to private practice.

After graduating optometry school, I worked part-time in several offices before buying into a private practice just three years later. Four years after that, I purchased the practice outright from my partner. I always knew I wanted to own my own practice—it’s where I could shape patient care in a way that aligned with my values. Like many optometrists, though, I quickly learned that running a small business involves much more than patient care. Between the clinical work and the countless administrative tasks, it’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day operations. 

That’s why my experience volunteering with VSP Eyes of Hope was so meaningful. It brought me back to the heart of why I became an optometrist in the first place. Eyes of Hope events strip away all the layers of paperwork, authorizations, and copays that can sometimes cloud our purpose, and re-center it on connection—pure and simple. To help patients who otherwise wouldn’t have access to eye exams or glasses is incredibly rewarding. The gratitude you feel in those moments is something that stays with you long after the event ends.

As a VSP network doctor, I’ve also seen firsthand how VSP supports our profession and patients. Based in Folsom, California, where VSP has such a strong presence, I’ve cared for countless patients whose access to quality eye care is possible because of their VSP coverage. That trust and accessibility have helped me care for more patients in my community—and for that, I’m grateful.

To my fellow optometrists: volunteering with Eyes of Hope is something I hope every OD experiences at least once. It’s not just about giving back—it’s about reconnecting. It’s a reminder of the spark that inspired us to enter this profession. Whether you’re early in your career or decades in, these opportunities help you reset, refocus, and remember the “why” behind what we do.

Follow along with my journey in eye care and advocacy on Instagram @drjenwademan