Ten month old Piper Sinclair reacted with baby glee when she could see clearly for the first time, thanks to Dr. Josiah Young of Opticare Vision Centers in Newport.
The video of Piper’s reaction to the gift of clear sight was made by her mom, Jessica, of Bridgetown. It has gone viral — with over 15 million views — and propelled the happy baby to national news.
Baby Piper was referred to Dr. Young when her pediatrician noticed something amiss with her eyes. And when Dr. Young — on her very first visit — fit Piper with tiny baby pink glasses it took a few minutes for Piper to get the hang of it.
Then, magic! And Piper’s reaction has captured the hearts of viewers around the world.
Dr. Young is an “Infant See” provider, meaning that he treats patients between six and 12 months olds at no cost.
Once Baby Piper has the glasses on her reaction is priceless – it is evident that she can see clearly for the first time. Piper and her family scheduled an appointment with Dr. Josiah Young of Opticare Vision Centers.
What was Dr. Young’s reaction? “This is why I love to come to work everyday. I can’t express how much joy it brings me to see this video.”
Jessica Sinclair said she posted the video because she “just wanted to say thank you to Dr. Josiah Young and the Opticare team for this reaction. I am so happy for my daughter and this amazing practice.” Jessica is hopeful that the video’s success will raise awareness about the importance of eye heath.
Picked up her glasses. Went out to eat and put them on her. Her reaction 🙂 melts my heart
Posted by Jessica Sinclair on Saturday, June 6, 2015
When should children have their first eye exam?
Kids can be first seen between 8-12 month old and should have an eye exam prior to starting preschool.
As Dr. Young explains, “We can tell a lot about a child’s eyes even at an early age without the child having to read an eye chart. I hope that this video will help raise awareness of the importance of getting early eye examinations for kids.”
Dr. Young participates in InfantSee®. This national program provides no-cost eye exams for children from 6-12 months. You can find a list of providers in your area by visiting http://www.infantsee.org
Dr. Young received his Doctor of Optometry degree from The Ohio State University College of Optometry and received a Master of Science degree in Vision Science for his research on the visual ability of athletes. His specialty includes pediatric eye exams, contact lens fittings and meeting the needs of athletes. Dr. Young practices at Opticare Vision Centers in Newport. He lives in Fort Thomas with his wife and two children.
Thanks to Carla Landon for contributing to this story.