Benjamin Griffiths
Night lenses changed my life | Benjamin Griffiths
We had a chance to chat with 16-year-old Benjamin Griffiths and his mom Carolyn, who live in Northern Ireland. Benjamin is really into technology and has already created 4 websites. He’s also a big fan of surfing. Benjamin has a strong passion for it.
One thing to know about Benjamin is that he has a significant eye condition called high myopia. This means his eyesight isn’t very good, and it got worse quite quickly starting when he was just 8 years old. Each year, his eyesight got worse by -1.00D. By the time he turned 13, his vision was at -3.75D and -4.00D.
When he was 14, he began using special lenses at night. Before using these lenses, Benjamin couldn’t see well at all without his regular glasses. This made it really hard for him to enjoy his favorite sports and feel confident. But these night lenses completely changed his life. They made a huge difference.
Q: So, Benjamin, how was that first day without anything in your eyes?
A: It was kinda unreal, the best way to put it. I peeked out the window, and my mind was blown! On the way to school, I could read license plates, which was pretty cool.
Q: You’ve been rocking night lenses for a while. How’s life without glasses now? And would you ever go back?
A: I wouldn’t touch glasses again with a ten-foot pole. The lenses just fit into life so easily. Sleeping with them feels natural. I hardly even think about it. The idea of rocking glasses during the day feels odd now.
Q: Daytime lenses, ever in the cards now?
A: Having to stick lenses in first thing and then pop them out for a surf? Nah, that’s a bit strange for me. Right now, I hit the waves worry-free. I can open my eyes underwater, no fuss. Sand in the eyes? Not my problem. Glasses falling out or getting wrecked at school would mess up my day. Night lenses are champs. They do their thing while I sleep, and I’m free to roam during the day. It’s awesome.
Q: So, you’re a surfer? How’s night lenses changed that game?
A: I’m all about riding waves now! When I was small, dad had to nudge me onto waves since I couldn’t see ’em. I learned to surf by feeling the wave. But now I can see it all. No more squinting at the shore or waves. Out there in the lineup, I soak it all in—the sea, the world around me. Sometimes, I even spot dolphins and seals. Bliss!
Q: How did getting used to night lenses go, putting them in and out?
A: First, it was a bit of a puzzle, but you catch on quick. Routine kicks in. I worried I’d hate having them in or struggle with ’em, but that phase flew by.
Q: What did your pals think? Did they notice the glasses gone?
A: Not really. They sensed something changed about me!
Q: You’d pitch night lenses to other teens your age and fellow surfers, yeah?
A: Totally, I’d throw my vote in without hesitation. Zero hassle. And for surfers, no more barriers.
Q: Carolyn, how’d Benjamin end up on the night lens train?
A: Chatted with a mom at school who’s an optometrist. We were griping about glasses, like 9 pairs a year. Benny was a pro at breaking ’em. She floated the night lens idea, new to me. Took Benny a while to wrap his head around it, but fear was worse than reality.
Q: Night lenses—got any funny reactions from family and friends?
A: Family saw the change in Benny instantly. More confident, for sure. Friends and fam? Not sure if they grasp it all, but they’re wowed by the idea.
Q: Why was hooking Benny up with night lenses a big deal for you as a parent?
A: It’s been a game-changer for him. More freedom in water sports, school, and hangouts. He’s breezing through class even from the back row. No more monthly eye doc visits for busted glasses. Wish we knew about ’em sooner.
Q: You’d give a shout-out to other parents about night lenses?
A: Absolutely, no doubt!