What Users Are Saying

I got to tell hundreds of people all about Ocutech and what VES does to help me.

I just wanted to tell you I spent the weekend auditioning for a new singing show on NBC called "The Voice". I was wearing my pink VES Sport in the line of thousands of auditioners and was the talk of the day! I got to tell hundreds of people all about Ocutech and what VES does to help me as people would stop me and ask (or stare). Then, after my audition, a producer took me aside and had me do an on camera interview wearing the bioptics. (Too bad I found out this morning that I didn't make the show after all of that)!! I was hoping I would be able to tell you I made it and would be on NBC promoting Ocutech!! Oh well, I will try again. 

Jessica Pelle' 
Riverside, California 

Earl Wallo Sr. served his country during the Korean War. Almost 50 years later, his country returns the favor, helping him through a personal battle with macular degeneration.

Former Marine receives Ocutech telescope through VA Hospital

In 1997, I developed Macular Degeneration which resulted in the loss of central vision in my right eye. I had already lost partial vision in the left eye, but laser surgery helped keep the remaining vision intact in that eye.

After visiting numerous eye doctors, I was encouraged to go to the Veterans Administration (VA) Hospital in East Orange, N.J. Through the VA, I received a pair of Ocutech Vision Enhancing System (VES) glasses in October 2000. They are of great value to me as I wear them in church, watching television and at the theater. I also use Ocutech at different times on the golf course to determine distance markers, tree obstruction and pin placements. If I’m not wearing them, they are always with me, as I may want to identify people or objects at unforeseen times.

I am grateful to the VA for issuing me the Ocutech product which allows me to see so much better than I could before.

Earle Wallo Sr.
Retired Police Captain, Florham Park, N.J.
Marine Corps, Korea ’52-53

At age 7, Chris Chander began memorizing piano tunes. He couldn't see the notes. Today, th e self-employed pianist not only sight reads music but he hopes to produce a CD by the end of the year.

Once I Was Blind But Now I Can See

by Jill Wolocko

At 25 years old, Chris Chandler is seeing many things for the first time: text on billboards, raindrops, crumbs on a dinner plate.

"It's amazing," said his mother, Margaret Chandler. "One time, he was staring at his empty plate for the longest time. He thought there was a bug on his plate, but it was a crumb. He had never seen a crumb before!"

The device helping Chris see more in life is the Ocutech VES-Auto-Focus telescope. At 2.5 ounces, the light-weight device works like an auto-focus camera. The battery-powered telescope sends out an infrared beam that bounces off the object of focus and triggers a small motor. The motor activates a computer chip that calculates the distance of the object and focuses the lens.

Born with optic nerve hypoplasia, Chris can't see out of his left eye. Tunnel vision in his right eye limits his field of vision. Without the AutoFocus, his vision has been compared to a foggy day. And with it? "I was able to see my mom and dad's faces clearly for the first time," Chris said.

Dr. Erica Farmer of Heart of America Eye Care in Shawnee Mission, Kan., is Chris's doctor. "From the minute I fit him with the AutoFocus, he did well," Dr. Farmer explained. "With his constricted visual field, you wouldn't think that would be the case, but he adapted to it like it was second nature."

In the beginning…

At seven, Chris learned to play the piano by ear and memorized music. He played through his teens while going to a school for the visually impaired.

After graduation, not everyone believed in his plans to play professionally at area nursing homes. The vocational counselor said it was volunteer work. "If people tell you it's not going to happen, you have to go out there and do it on your own," Margaret said.

With a business card and over a dozen regular "gigs," Chris's schedule is now booked. "I helped get his foot in the door, but he's the one with the talent that's getting all the call backs."

Discovering "auto focus"

Chris, who studies piano at the University of Missouri Conservatory, had used a manual focus telescope in the past, but it was difficult to refocus from music to teacher when playing. One day, Margaret's Internet search for "auto focus" and "telescope" resulted in "Ocutech."

Since getting the AutoFocus, Chris sight read his first piece of music. "Before I had the AutoFocus telescope, notes were just fuzzy dots; they didn't mean anything to me, but now they do."

Prior, he traveled with a cane and a sighted guide everywhere he went. "I don't use a sighted guide as often as I did because now I can read the signs on doors and find everything on my own."

When banking, Chris now signs his name neatly in public using the AutoFocus rather than a CCTV at home. Navigating unfamiliar areas--such as the airport--is less stressful as well. He's flown to California, Oregon, Chicago and most recently, Arizona.

Many are impressed how the device has affected other aspects of his life, too. "The first change I noticed after Chris started using the AutoFocus was his speech increasing in speed," said Leon Bugg, his piano instructor. "He began displaying more confidence until finally, he began asserting himself by stating his needs unsolicited: going to the men's room without any assistance, commenting on the room temperature as too hot or cold. This was the most remarkable as he never seemed to think for himself. Chris has become a whole person finally, and it was directly due to his use of the AutoFocus telescope."

To supplement his piano playing, Chris had hoped for a data entry job processing medical claims, some of which can be contracted from home. Chris practiced "at-home" tests from the computer. The actual test, however, was on paper that had to be placed under a closed circuit television system (CCTV) for enlargement. Too time consuming, it was difficult to pass the tests. Frustrated and burned out, Chris gave up hope.

After discovering the AutoFocus, his hopes were renewed. With state-funded approval, he traded the CCTV and other visual aids no longer needed for the AutoFocus. His mother said the rehab counselor was ecstatic. "If you factor all the devices he would need to be set up in a work environment versus this device, it is definitely money saved. Those other devices could be added to inventory for others."

In the future, Chris would be able to test the conventional way. "A work environment doesn't have to adapt to him...he can approach any computer!" Margaret said.

In the meantime, he is pursuing a musical career on the rise. "We began a journey into bringing notes by sound together in time and space with the printed notes on the lines or spaces that his ears were hearing," Bugg said. "The results have been spectacular!" Chris even hopes to produce a CD later this year. His mom couldn't be more proud. "He does so well with the AutoFocus. The other day, we were sitting on the couch, and he said to me, 'Once I was blind, but now I can see.' It's such a miracle!"

Born legally blind, Tim Goetz can see 20/200 on the best of days. Going to college posed many challenges, but with the help of the Ocutech VES- AutoFocus, Tim is pursuing a degree in engineering.

Farmer Turned Engineer

By Jill Wolocko

Born with ocular albinism, Tim Goetz can see 20/200 on the best of days. But it didn't stop him from a successful 20-year career as a farmer: a back injury did. After surgery, he was told not to lift more than 20 pounds. So in looking to a career change, Tim turned to an old high school dream: to be an engineer.

He knew it would take a lot of work, and he couldn't do it alone. He and his family contacted the Division of Services for the Blind (DSB) in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Rehabilitation counselor Georgena Clayton met with Tim to assess his situation."The hard part of my job is that every case is different," Georgena said. "Depending on the need, talent and motivation…if someone is willing to help themselves, I'm willing to help them in every way I can."

Tim was skeptical about available resources, but after meeting with Georgena, he knew that everything was going to be okay. "When she said, 'we can do this,' that's when I knew it would all work out.

"DSB did help it "all work out." Tim was assisted with a tuition program that enabled him to complete a pre-engineering curriculum before transferring to NC State University. Adaptive technology devices, such as a laptop required for all engineering students, were also provided. Still, a lot had changed since Tim attended school. "I made it through high school and I couldn't see the board, so I figured I'd do the same thing; it turned out more complex than I thought."

"I can see the board, and it's a major improvement for the computer... this is 'The Tool' for school access!" — Tim Goetz, VES- AutoFocus wearer

In class, Tim had permission to sit by the podium to see the board; the first row wasn't close enough. But things still weren't easy. "The first day, the professor covered about six blackboards to solve a single problem. I was lost like a goose in a snowstorm!"

Over the years, Tim acquired many adaptive aids, including closed circuit television-computers that made print larger as well as hand-held telescopes. "They're good if you're sitting down, but it was impossible to negotiate campus.

"It was through Tim's brother that he learned of another device that would ultimately help to succeed with mobility: the Ocutech VES- AutoFocus. It removed the greatest challenge for Tim: focusing.

At 2.5 ounces, the light-weight device works like an auto-focus camera. The battery-powered telescope sends out an infrared beam that bounces off the object of focus and triggers a small motor. The motor activates a computer chip that calculates the distance of the object and focuses the lens.

The AutoFocus helps Tim outside of the academic world as well, where he can enjoy the scenery of long-distance traveling and read signs he couldn't see before. Academically, it becomes a necessity.

"Years from now, I will always remember Tim Goetz... he held onto a dream from high school and pursued it, despite his vision challenges. That's determination." — Georgena Clayton, DSB Rehabilitation Counselor

"I can see the board, and it's a major improvement for the computer, especially when I'm looking at someone else's computer that is not set up in large fonts like mine," he said. "I'm going to graduate with a 3.5 average because I can see what I'm doing. This is 'The Tool' for school access.

"Clayton agrees. "Literally, for him as a student in the school of engineering, it took away his limitations. After getting the AutoFocus, Tim told student special services he didn't need them anymore….they thought he was dropping out, but he told them it was because, 'I can see now!'"

Tim once thought the glasses might cause additional attention or unwanted stares. "I thought people wouldn't know how to handle it, that they would think it was weird when they met me, but people don't even notice."

Through NC State's engineering program, Tim works every other semester in a co-op with General Electric as a manufacturer/ design engineer. He reviews drawings, checks costs and receives other hands-on experience that will prepare him for the post-graduation job world. "One time, during inventory, I had to read numbers from different pieces of equipment 6-8 shelving units away," he explained. "If I can get my nose next to it, I can see it, but in this case I couldn't. With eight hours of inventory to do, the glasses really paid off!"

The future holds endless possibilities for Tim. With the co-op at GE, he may have a job offer upon graduation, perhaps even in an international role. "Ocutech offers me the opportunity to function in a perfectly normal environment," he said.Georgena agrees and said she wishes more people could benefit from the AutoFocus. "You go through life thinking if you can help one person, it will all be worth it. When I met Tim, he was unemployed as a result of a back injury. Now he's going to be an engineer!" she said. "Years from now, I will always remember Tim Goetz…he held onto a dream from high school and pursued it, despite his vision challenges. That's determination!"

But for now, if you walk into Tim's engineering class at NC State, you won't see him up next to the podium. Tim can see just fine from the front row.

Legally blind for more than 30 years, Mike Vanderhoef has acquired a lot of "gadgets" to help him see better. He even developed nicknames for most of them, the newest being his "electric glasses."

Vietnam Veteran Given New Lease on Life

By Jill Wolocko, Editor

Legally blind for more than 30 years, Mike Vanderhoef has acquired a lot of "gadgets" to help him see better. He even developed nicknames for most of them, the newest being his "electric glasses."

Manufactured by Ocutech, the 4-power VES- AutoFocus is a light-weight device that works like an auto-focus camera. The battery-powered telescope sends out an infrared beam that bounces off the object of focus and triggers a small motor. The motor activates a computer chip that calculates the distance of the object and focuses the lens.

"I've used hand-held binocular units, but that's not like kicking back and relaxing with the AutoFocus." — Mike Vanderhoef, VES- AutoFocus wearer

"Now, that's the way to get around!" he said enthusiastically. When the Vietnam veteran first tried them on at the Kansas City VAMC, he could see down the hallway. Later, as his wife drove back to their home on the other side of the state in Eagle Rock, Mo., he could read signs along the interstate. "That's the first time I could do either of those things in 30 years."

Over the past three years, Vanderhoef has used the AutoFocus to see many things he could only hear before, like high school basketball games. "Without them, I can't see anything on the court. I just listened to the noise, and sometimes I could see the players moving back and forth….now I can count their pearly whites!" he joked.

He can also see his grandchildren play sports. "I've used hand-held binocular units, but that's not like kicking back and relaxing with the AutoFocus," Vanderhoef said.

He loves to fish, and uses the glasses to see detail on the boat, under the hood of the car and on walks around the countryside.

Back in the city, Vanderhoef said the AutoFocus is essential for reading the many signs, street names and building numbers.

Recently, he attended the Route 66 concert where Lynryd Skynard was playing. He brought his glasses so he wouldn't miss a thing. Old friends are always intrigued by his glasses. "My college buddies wanted to see my 'high-tech glasses.' They were very impressed with what the AutoFocus could do for me."

He credits his new-found vision to the Kansas City VAMC V.I.C.T.O.R.S. program. "I had no idea these glasses existed, and even if I did, I couldn't afford to buy them. They don't realize what they did for me when they gave me these glasses. I just can't say enough good things about them."

Vietnam veteran Robert Dennen writes a first-hand account of how the Ocutech VES AutoFocus and the staff at the Kansas City VA Medical Center changed his life.

Robert Dennen's Story

by Robert L. Dennen

I was employed as a railroad engineer in 1980 when I was infected with histoplasmosis in both eyes. Due to my loss of central vision, I was not able to see detail.

I first learned about Ocutech's VES- AutoFocus telescope in 1999 through the V.I.C.T.O.R.S. program at the VA Medical Center in Kansas City, MO.

When Dr. Maino put the glasses on, I was able to see the drawings hanging on the wall at the opposite side of the room. As I was leaving the VA hospital, I was able to read the time on my wife's wristwatch.

The greatest benefit has been the practical things in life for me and my family. My children now have the confidence that I can go into a store by myself and pick up the right item.

Model railroading has always been a hobby of mine, and I can now enjoy it without seeking help from family.

Watching television is no longer a problem since I do not have to sit so close to the screen. In public buildings, I am able to read directions, room numbers, and recognize objects within the building.

I can now take my grandsons to the park because I can see the shirts that they are wearing. Walking outdoors is now safer; I can see stop signs, curbs, potholes and approaching traffic.

At family reunions, I feel comfortable approaching relatives because now I can recognize them, whereas before I had to wait for them to approach me. I would have liked to have these glasses when my youngest daughter was playing sports in high school.

Many visual aids are offered through the VAs, and by sharing my experiences, I am hopeful that visually impaired veterans, whether service connected or not, would choose to be evaluated for these glasses or other visual aids available.

I would like to thank Ocutech and the wonderful people at the V.I.C.T.O.R.S. program at the Kansas City VA for making my life easier and more enjoyable.

Vietnam Veternan,'68-70
25th Infantry, 
1st and 27th Wolfhounds

Legally blind, Barrett Simmons returned to college as an adult but found it difficult to keep up with the extensive note taking and heavy reading assignments. With the help of the Ocutech VES AutoFocus, Barrett now has a 3.8 grade point average and is looking forward to graduation in 2005.

Determination Turns "Jobs" Into "A Career"

by Jill Wolocko, Editor

At age 38, Barrett Simmons wanted a change. He had a number of jobs since high school graduation: nursing assistant, telemarketer, janitor, and construction worker. "Often, I worked two jobs, anywhere from 90-100 hours a week," he said.

In the early days…

As one of eight children, Barrett is also one of three boys born with albinism. All have nystagmus, which makes them legally blind. As a child, he attended Governor Moorehead School in Raleigh, N.C., with his two older brothers. "Everything was large print so I didn't have a problem with reading," he said.

But after he graduated from high school, most books weren't offered in large print. That and other reasons prevented him from finishing trade school.

"When you drop out, you feel like you fail. I knew that I could do better than what I was doing."

Back to school…

In August 2000, after 20 years away from school, Barrett enrolled full-time at Wayne County Community College. Because he qualified for special needs programs, he received state-funded tuition reimbursement and a lap top computer to help in his newest pursuit: a degree in information systems/ networking/database management.

Adaptive devices were also provided, such as manual focusing telescopes. "They are extremely heavy, though, and you have to focus each eye separately."

By the middle of first-semester, Barrett was struggling. Even with a personal reader to help him, he still had a lot of reading to do on his own. "It would get tiring holding the magnifying glass to the page for hours on end."

Keeping up in class was difficult, too. "I had to sit 2 feet away from the teacher to take notes, and hopefully, she wouldn't block what she was writing."

To fill the gaps in his notes, he would ask teachers to speak what they wrote so he could record it and catch up later. "I wouldn't dare hold up class."

An answer to a prayer…

Ultimately, Barrett attributes his faith to propelling him through the tough spots. "I prayed for an answer."

Soon there-after, he was reminded of a conversation with an NC State professor. "One day he came to me and said, 'Barrett, these glasses might help you.' I was touched that he thought of me and knew that I needed to get those glasses!"

"Those glasses" were the Ocutech VES- AutoFocus. At 2.5 ounces, the light-weight device works like an auto-focus camera. The battery-powered telescope sends out an infrared beam that bounces off the object of focus and triggers a small motor. The motor activates a computer chip that calculates the distance of the object and focuses the lens.

"The AutoFocus freed my hands," he said, unlike the manual-focus telescope. "I could work on the computer in fine detail…on the most intricate parts of the computer!"

When given the choice between the AutoFocus and a closed-circuit television system (CCTV) to aid in his studies, Barrett opted for the AutoFocus. "I didn't want to have equipment to carry around or have to come home to use it."

Barrett had the new AutoFocus by the beginning of his second semester. "I was so much more relaxed," he said. "The glasses instantly helped me out. I could read from the board. I could read books without a magnifying glass." Even more importantly, he referred to the delicate computer repair. "With large hands like I have, I couldn't do it without the VES- AutoFocus."

With one full year invested, he has a 3.8 grade point average and anticipates finishing by 2005.

Outside of academia…

The VES- AutoFocus gave Barrett the mobility he needed in many aspects of life, and the ability to see things he never really had. He said he can see the television from further away; he can watch the birds, and see people's faces better. "It's amazing to actually be able to see people's faces while riding in the car!"

The father of three, Barrett said all his children have been blessed with good vision. Like many proud fathers, he said his oldest son is a "soon-to-be NBA star" and enjoys going to watch his son's high school basketball games. "I used to look more for his number than his face, but now I can find him better. He even comes over every once and a while for pointers from his dad."

Barrett still refuses to take credit for any of his own perseverance and determination leading him the way. "When you have faith, all things are possible."

"I’ve tried all sorts of vision aids/telescopes, but each was a challenge, none were natural and easy for me to use. Then in 2003 while attending the Blinded Veteran’s Association National Convention in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, I met..."

George W Myers

I’ve tried all sorts of vision aids/telescopes, but each was a challenge, none were natural and easy for me to use. Then in 2003 while attending the Blinded Veteran’s Association National Convention in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, I met the Ocutech representative, and at once I knew I had to have one of these. So the following year I was sent back to The Southeastern Blind Rehab Center in Birmingham Al for low vision clinic and computer up grade. While there I was issued a 4x Auto focus and it has completely given me a whole new way for me to see things.

Now while shopping I can see the signs above the isles so I don’t waste time going up and down isles looking for what I need. I can see the items on the shelf and read the label, without taking it off too see what is in the can. While traveling, I can see enough of the monitor about flights and bus travel, but at times I still have to ask people to get me in the right direction, but that is what blind rehab training does for you.The first time I wore it and was able to see people’s faces for the first time since I lost my vision in 1992, I had tears in my eyes; it was something to see faces of family members and friends. I still get a lump in my throat when I see someone across the room that I haven’t seen in years. 

When I first got the Autofocus my friend took me to the Leperzan Stallion show and I could actually enjoy the show without having to readjust the monocular. Also when she and I go to the different concerts, no matter where we sit in the arena, I can still enjoy the performers with the Autofocus. Some of the concerts I’ve been too, George Strait, Cher, Allan Jackson, Dixie Chicks, Toby Keith, are just a few that I have enjoyed viewing with the Autofocus. 

Now I also use my Autofocus for my favorite sport………..deer hunting. I take the Autofocus and sit in my stand with a 40 caliber, Ruger P95 with a laser dot on it. When I see movement I will focus on the deer, and get to check it out with the Autofocus and place the red dot on it and with the Autofocus I can see the red dot on it. But don’t worry I have not killed one yet, because I am more interested in just being in the woods, and checking out the wildlife, I have watched squirrels and woodpeckers in trees right next to me. I also use it during the rifle hunt, but have not shot the rifle with it on my forehead because there is not enough clearance between the two instruments. I explain to my buddies that it is like looking thru a 4x scope on a rifle, they begin to understand.I am very thankful to the technicians at Ocutech for the assistance they have given me in using and adjusting the Autofocus. I also enjoy visiting with the reps at the conventions I attend. This instrument has opened up a whole new world to me.

George W Myers 
Hattieville, AR

"My name is Frank Costello and I live in Kelowna, BC, Canada. I have been legally blind since 1997 and I have been using Ocutech devices since 1998. I started with the original VES-II 4 power magnifier and a few years ago..."

Frank Costello

My name is Frank Costello and I live in Kelowna, BC, Canada. I have been legally blind since 1997 and I have been using Ocutech devices since 1998. I started with the original VES-II 4 power magnifier and a few years ago I purchased the K series, specifically because of the new mounting system on regular glass frames.

Just recently I purchased a second VES-K 4x device for myself as I found my life difficult whenever I had to ship the device for cleaning or repairs from Canada to Ocutech in the USA and I would have to be without the use of this device for four to six weeks, mostly because of the delays in getting devices like this across the border in both directions. Having the second VES-K on hand means I am able to continue my regular routines and activities. I have a local optometry business that has taken the time to learn how to do basic cleaning and mounting procedures, which helps greatly.

I wear the Ocutech VES-K4x all my waking hours as it has become an integral part of my life and it has greatly enhanced how I am able to live my life. I take part in Hiking, Kayaking and cycling activities and I am able to enjoy all the sights of the wilderness with the device always mounted on my glasses. In 2004, I hiked and camped on the Inca Trail in Peru for four days and could enjoy all the wonderful sights and the Inca architecture along the trail and was thankful for having my VES-K always with me.

During shopping activities, I am able to read prices and labels using the magnifier. While traveling around town, I am able to see the traffic lights and read street signs and while traveling through airports, I am able to read all the direction signs and move easily to my departure gate. Having this independence because of the VES-K 4x means I am really able to enjoy my life much more and do the things I want to do in my life.

Frank Costello
Kelowna, BC
CANADA

"I am a doctor living in New Delhi, India. I have been using Autofocus since November 2006. Initially, I used it mainly for watching television, sight- seeing, identification of currency notes and other day to day activities. Gradually, I started using this device while..."

My Experience with Autofocus:

Ocutech’s VES AutoFocus LVA was prescribed to me by Vision Enhancement Centre, at RETINA FOUNDATION, Ahmedabad, India.

I am a doctor living in New Delhi, India. I have been using Autofocus since November 2006. Initially, I used it mainly for watching television, sight- seeing, identification of currency notes and other day to day activities. Gradually, I started using this device while counseling patients. Due to increased clarity of their faces and things around me, I feel more confident in interacting with them. It gives me immense satisfaction and helps me to be in touch with my profession.

This truly portable device is simple to use and maintain. It has helped a lot in my rehabilitation.

The after sale services provided by Vision enhancement centre, Ahmedabad (India) and parent company Ocutech deserves a special mention. My sincere thanks to Mr. Manbir Dang, at Retina Foundation. He has been very supportive and helpful at every stage.

Dr. Raghavendra Goswami
M.S (Ophthalmology)
New Delhi, India

"My daughter was born with albinism which caused her to be legally blind. Her best "corrected" (with glasses) vision was 20/200. Although she attended public school, she just couldn't see anything in the classroom unless..."

Susan Evans

My daughter was born with albinism which caused her to be legally blind. Her best "corrected" (with glasses) vision was 20/200. Although she attended public school, she just couldn't see anything in the classroom unless it was a couple of inches from her face. When she was entering the 5th grade we found out about Ocutech and the Bioptic Lenses. When she returned to school after the Christmas break that year, she was a new student!!! Her grades went from C's to A's and her enthusiasm for learning shot through the roof!! She's finishing the 7th grade and is in the academically gifted program at her school.

My daughter loves the vision that the Bioptic Lenses bring to her. She's 13 years old and wishes she didn't need to wear something this big on her face but the vision that she has with these glasses is worth the price of wearing them.

Thank you so much to the staff at Ocutech!!

Susan Evans