Guest Blogger – Edward Tepper works as an accountant, is an avid photographer and a rider for Team Type 2. He was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes in 2008 and through cycling and exercise, stays happy and healthy while properly managing his condition. He shares his personal experience on how switching to progressive lenses helped him.
Ed Tepper with Team Type 2
I’ve been wearing glasses since ever I can remember, and I’m now 61. About 30 years ago a friend talked me into wearing contact lenses and I did up to about 9 months ago. The story about me changing back to glasses started a few years ago when I could no longer read close up or clearly see a computer screen without “cheater” reading glasses. I had several pairs that I kept in different rooms at home and in my office. Then one night at a nice restaurant I had to ask my wife to read the menu to me because I left my cheaters at home. Needless to say, the ribbing continued through dessert.
Fortunately, it was time for my annual eye exam with my VSP optometrist. I’ve had VSP coverage through my employers for many years. I’ve always received great service and saved a bunch of money. The optometrist suggested that I try progressive lenses. These lenses are graded to allow clear vision at all distances. They do take a little while to get used to. I found I might have to tip my head up or down a little so I’m looking through the right part of the lens to see clearly. For example, I’m now focusing at a medium distance to see my computer screen so I’m looking through the middle to bottom part of the lens to see clearly. When driving I have to look through the top part of the lens to see distant signs and the bottom part of the lens to see the speedometer so I don’t have to focus on the flashing blue lights behind me (LOL). At first this constant adjusting was annoying but after a few days it became second nature!
As a member of Team Type 2 it’s especially important that I’m able to see near and far while I’m training for our signature event, The Race Across America. While training I need to be able to clearly see the road ahead and my bike computer so I know whether I’m in my training zone. Wearing optical inserts in my VSP cycling glasses gives me the clear vision I need.
If you’re like me and need corrective lenses to see both near and far, I strongly suggest that you visit your VSP optometrist and ask about progressive lenses.
About Team Type 1 and VSP Vision Care
Team Type 1 is a group of athletes living with diabetes. The team includes professional race teams, a triathlon team and a development team. Team Type 1 strives to instill hope and inspiration for people around the world affected by diabetes. VSP® Vision Care is proud to be their exclusive eyecare and eyewear provider.
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