Members of the optometry community came together in Boston recently to remember and honor the legacy of Professor Brien Holden, PhD. Holden was the founder of Optometry Giving Sight (OGS). He was a leader in expanding access to vision care worldwide and passed away in 2015. Holden established OGS in 2003 in collaboration with the World Council of Optometry and the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness as a fundraising organization to support programs globally to end uncorrected refractive error.
During the evening, OGS presented the inaugural Brien Holden Founders Award to Dr. Greg Pearl and to CooperVision for their longstanding efforts to continue the work that Holden did during his lifetime to expand access to vision care and for their ongoing and generous support of OGS.
In his opening remarks, OGS U.S. Board Chair Dr. Juan Carlos Aragón remembered Holden as “a man of action and a man of passion. He was a fearless colleague, a passionate friend, and a tireless leader in the fight against uncorrected refractive error.”
He continued by reminding attendees that “your belief in the work carried forward by OGS has made a profound difference. Your support has helped us tackle the underlying cause of preventable blindness and vision impairment – lack of access to vision care.
Since its inception, OGS has helped establish 14 optometry schools, trained more than 8714,000 optometrists and paraprofessionals, and built over 200 vision centers for clinical training and patient care.
“With your support,” Aragón told attendees, “we have provided desperately needed vision care to over 15 million people in more than 70 countries.
“As I remember my friend and colleague, Brien, I can’t help but think how proud he would be of what we have accomplished – together – in his memory.”
Optometry Giving Sight is a non-profit organization that raises funds from optometrists, optometry practices, and optometry-related businesses and corporations to award grants for sustainable, impactful projects that expand the profession and improve access to vision care in underserved areas of the world. For more information about OGS and its work, visit givingsight.org
Dr. Greg Pearl (second from right) accepts the Brien Holden Founders
Award from (l to r) OGS Canada Chair, Dr. Susan Cooper, OGS U.S. Board Chair
Dr. Juan Carlos Aragon, and OGS Executive Director, Donna J. Mikulecky
CooperVision President Jerry Warner (second from right) accepts the Brien Holden Founders Award from (l to r) OGS Canada Chair, Dr. Susan Cooper, OGS U.S. Board Chair Dr. Juan Carlos Aragon, and OGS Executive Director, Donna J. Mikulecky Guests mingle during the reception during the Brien
Holden Founders Award Dinner
EssilorLuxottica announced the launch of SWITCH: Vision Innovation Summit by EssilorLuxottica, a new industry wide event that will explore the driving forces behind the industry’s rapid transformation. SWITCH will provide a captivating 3-day experience for eyecare professionals that will spark meaningful conversation around everything from AI wearables to med-tech to myopia innovation, capturing the true potential beyond frames and lenses to shape the future of vision care.
The new event will be held March 9-11, 2026 in Orlando for partners from the Americas, leading immediately into Vision Expo, and in Monte-Carlo on April 13-15, 2026 for customers in EMEA and Asia, allowing the Company to present a global and unified vision for the future.
As EssilorLuxottica continues to push the boundaries of patient care through advanced vision care, AI eyewear and med-tech solutions, SWITCH will be an ideal platform for provocative dialogue among industry professionals around advancements in areas such as AI and data science.
“The world we play and practice in tomorrow will be more predictive, more personalized, more powerful through AI, data and other developments, and it’s essential that eyecare professionals are in the driver’s seat. In creating SWITCH, we will provide an ideal environment for the kind of elevated conversation, discovery and relationships needed to succeed in a much more connected world. We look forward to delivering an experience that truly reflects the inspiring times we’re living in,” said Francesco Milleri, Chairman and CEO, and Paul du Saillant, Deputy CEO at EssilorLuxottica.
More details on the event will be shared in the coming weeks and months. For customers in the Americas, please visit the following link for more information and to register to the event: CLICK HERE
As we celebrate Children’s Vision Month in October, the CAO is launching a new digital awareness campaign to address children’s vision care and the rising epidemic of myopia.
Raising public awareness about the importance of regular eye exams for early detection remains crucial to improving eye care outcomes for Canadians, from toddlers to seniors. Unfortunately, eye health often doesn’t receive the same level of attention as other routine health care.
“Many parents assume they would know if their child was struggling to see, and children with vision problems are generally unaware of their condition because they assume everyone sees the way they do”, says Dr.
Allison Scott, CAO President. “Parents are often surprised when optometrists diagnose their child with an ocular issue. Reassuring them, explaining that these things aren’t always obvious, leads to a better understanding of the importance of regular comprehensive eye exams”.
As a child grows, so do their eyes, and eye conditions can develop quickly. Optometrists frequently encounter ‘invisible’ eye issues especially myopia or nearsightedness – an increasingly common eye disease among children.
This is why the CAO recommends that parents schedule comprehensive eye exams for their children starting at six to nine months, then again between the ages of two and five years, and annually thereafter to age 19. After 19, eye development stabilizes, allowing eye exams every two years for healthy adults with no known eye conditions.
Eye exams are crucial, even if no symptoms are evident, to catch potential issues early and ensure timely intervention.
Fighting Myopia, One of the Leading Causes of Vision Loss in the World1
Detecting myopia early on means taking measures right away to halt or slow the progression. People with myopia will have trouble seeing distant objects, such as road signs, whiteboards, movie screens and TVs. Myopia has both a genetic and environmental component, including increased near work and screen time among children.
Research shows that myopia is occurring at earlier ages starting in childhood (6-7 years of age) and progressing at a more rapid rate than in previous generations. This is concerning, given that high levels of myopia can lead to sight-threatening conditions, including retinal detachments, cataracts, glaucoma, and myopic maculopathy. By 2050, the prevalence of myopia is estimated to increase to 50% of the world’s population2.
“We know that clear vision is the cornerstone of a child’s ability to learn, grow, and build confidence,” according to Vanessa Johari Hansen, Country Business Unit Head, Vision Care, at Alcon Canada. “Alcon is proud to support the Canadian Association of Optometrists’ campaign, empowering families to prioritize regular comprehensive eye exams, so children can See Brilliantly and Learn Brilliantly.”
Focusing on prevention, early detection and timely treatment of vision problems set the foundation for lifelong eye health, and beyond.
“Myopia can significantly impact a child’s ability to engage fully in daily life, even in the short term. While correcting vision is important, it’s only part of the solution. Myopia often progresses as children grow,” said Enrique Contreras, Country Manager at CooperVision Canada. “As a global leader in myopia management for children, we are dedicated to offering innovative solutions designed to slow that progression, helping to reduce the risk of serious vision complications later in life.”
Maintaining good habits beyond the optometrist’s exam room will also help minimize the impact of myopia. Spending more time outdoors and limiting screen time are beneficial for healthy development, both for ocular health as well as overall health.
1 Bourne RR, Stevens GA, White RA, Smith JL, Flaxman SR, Price H, et al. Causes of vision loss worldwide, 1990-2010: a systematic
analysis. Lancet Glob Health. 2013;1(6):e339-49.
2 Holden BA, Fricke TR, Wilson DA, Jong M, Naidoo KS, Sankaridurg P, et al. Global Prevalence of Myopia and High Myopia and Temporal Trends from 2000 through 2050. Ophthalmology. 2016;123(5):1036-42.
Newton™ (formerly Neurolens) has announced that its Sequel™ everyday lenses are now available through VSP® managed vision care (MVC) plans, extending access to its Convergence Boost™ technology for a wider range of patients experiencing digital eye strain.
According to Newton, digital eye strain affects up to 75% of device users, and the Sequel lens is designed to address this through its proprietary technology that supports more comfortable visual alignment during near tasks. Clinical data from the company suggests that 91% of wearers reported improvement in symptoms commonly associated with digital eye strain, with four out of five recommending the lens.
The Sequel portfolio includes four lens options—Sequel 0, 38, 67, and PAL—allowing practitioners to tailor prescriptions based on patient needs. With inclusion under VSP’s managed care offerings, the company says Sequel transitions from a premium category product to a more accessible solution for everyday wearers.
“VSP availability removes barriers and puts life-changing vision solutions within reach of millions,” said Davis Corley, CEO of Newton. “We’re democratizing access to patented technology that works for the way we live now.”
Optometrist Dr. Paul Lovero noted that patients report reduced visual fatigue and greater comfort with Sequel lenses, describing the experience as “eyes feeling like they’re on vacation.”
While the Sequel range is positioned as an everyday lens option, Newton’s Neurolens products with Contoured Prism technology remain available as a premium therapeutic solution for patients requiring advanced prism correction.
In spotlighting those who go the extra mile, we turn to Jessica Fraser—an inspiring figure whose journey crisscrosses Canada and the USA as she champions top independent eyewear brands.
With three decades of experience and unmatched dedication, Jessica has earned her stripes as an international Rockstar Road Warrior.
Jessica works approximately 200–220 days annually with Bevel and Blake Kuwahara, covering Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Ontario in Canada, as well as Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin, Indiana, Ohio, Washington D.C., Virginia, and Maryland in the U.S. With so many new independent shops opening, she could practically camp out in Ontario. Jessica absolutely loves Canada and enjoys her amazing customer base.
A Career That Started with Curiosity
Jessica’s career began in Long Beach, California, working as a secretary and receptionist, filing insurance claims for an optical boutique. As a natural progression, she began fitting patients with frames and discovered her passion for enhancing lives through eyewear styling.
Two years later, she was offered a job with the Optical Shop of Aspen, owned by Larry Sands. With 28 U.S. retail stores and a wholesale division distributing brands like Chrome Hearts and Matsuda, it was a perfect fit. Jessica started in sales and moved up the ranks to manage several of the retail locations over her nine years of dedication.
She worked in both the retail and wholesale sectors and, while in Santa Monica, became a certified optician. At one point, Larry asked her to live in his Aspen condo for a year to manage a bustling boutique that catered to celebrities and VIPs.
Highly motivated and passionate, she eventually returned to Newport Beach and later moved to Santa Fe to take on a management role. Her favourite styling sessions to date? Harrison Ford and Nicolas Cage.
In just two years, she helped grow a Santa Fe store’s revenue from $500,000 to $2 million. She was then transferred to La Jolla to open a new boutique with the promise of becoming Assistant Manager of Marketing, Sales, and Promotion. But after the company was sold to Oakley, then Luxottica, that promotion never came. Her commute became exhausting—two hours each way. While the celebrity market was exciting, the shift in company culture led Jessica to become a sales rep for Robert Marc and Lunor.
Defying Doubt and Embracing the Rep Life
Early on, Jessica considered switching from retail to wholesale, but a manager discouraged her, claiming women were a liability due to potential pregnancies—and that the sample bags would be too heavy. Ironically, that comment came from a female manager. Years later, after witnessing broken promises and company transitions, Jessica embraced the rep lifestyle with her trademark passion for fashion, style, and luxury.
She took her first rep role as the recession began—and still thrived. Later, she was approached by Ramassia, distributor for Theo, covering the West Coast of the U.S., including Texas up to Wyoming, and much of Western Canada. After nine successful years, she returned to Michigan to be with her father during a period of declining health.
Jessica then met Richard Mewha and Claudio Arena from Bevel and Blake Kuwahara and accepted a new role, covering the U.S. East Coast and Ontario, Quebec, and Nova Scotia. Her territory has evolved during her seven-year tenure, but her influence has only grown stronger.
A Life Beyond Borders
Over the course of her 30-year career, Jessica has encountered both triumph and challenge. One of the most disheartening discoveries? Learning she was being paid less than her male counterparts. Frequent border crossings also exposed her to racial profiling, and the wait times—paired with complicated customs paperwork—could range from 15 minutes to more than two hours.
Healthcare has been another hurdle. In the U.S., independent reps pay for their own insurance—around $700 USD a month for limited coverage. Jessica finds this unfair, especially given the toll that frequent travel takes on the body. Managing multiple territories without universal or employer-based healthcare adds yet another layer of complexity to her role.
Despite all this, Jessica is highly respected and continues to support the luxury eyewear market with grace and grit. Her warm personality, deep industry knowledge, and unwavering dedication have made her a beloved figure in the field.
Outside of work, Jessica has a deep love for art—she studied art history in college—and enjoys reading, writing, and sports, especially hockey. A die-hard Detroit Red Wings fan, she also roots for Canadian teams and is currently following the Winnipeg Jets.
Jessica’s story is one of perseverance, resilience, and passion—a shining example of what it means to carve your own path in the world of independent eyewear.
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J.F. REY is highlighting SLEDGE, a collection that combines titanium, acetate, carbon fibre and a patented screwless hinge system in an architectural approach to eyewear design.
HOYA Vision Care Canada has announced the availability of Sensity 3, Sensity Colours and Sensity Shine, expanding its light-adaptive lens portfolio for eye care professionals across Canada.
The American Academy of Optometry has announced its 2026 award recipients, recognizing leaders in optometry, vision science, education, research, clinical care and service.
J.F. REY has introduced IMAGINE, its 2026 kids eyewear collection designed for children aged 4 to 12, with frames emphasizing colour, transparency, comfort and durability.
Toulch Rimless has signed a Canadian distribution agreement with Audace Lunettes, which will represent the Montreal-based brand and its Phi collection across Canada.
J.F. REY is highlighting SLEDGE, a collection that combines titanium, acetate, carbon fibre and a patented screwless hinge system in an architectural approach to eyewear design.
HOYA Vision Care Canada has announced the availability of Sensity 3, Sensity Colours and Sensity Shine, expanding its light-adaptive lens portfolio for eye care professionals across Canada.
The American Academy of Optometry has announced its 2026 award recipients, recognizing leaders in optometry, vision science, education, research, clinical care and service.
J.F. REY has introduced IMAGINE, its 2026 kids eyewear collection designed for children aged 4 to 12, with frames emphasizing colour, transparency, comfort and durability.
Toulch Rimless has signed a Canadian distribution agreement with Audace Lunettes, which will represent the Montreal-based brand and its Phi collection across Canada.
J.F. REY is highlighting SLEDGE, a collection that combines titanium, acetate, carbon fibre and a patented screwless hinge system in an architectural approach to eyewear design.
HOYA Vision Care Canada has announced the availability of Sensity 3, Sensity Colours and Sensity Shine, expanding its light-adaptive lens portfolio for eye care professionals across Canada.
The American Academy of Optometry has announced its 2026 award recipients, recognizing leaders in optometry, vision science, education, research, clinical care and service.
J.F. REY has introduced IMAGINE, its 2026 kids eyewear collection designed for children aged 4 to 12, with frames emphasizing colour, transparency, comfort and durability.
Toulch Rimless has signed a Canadian distribution agreement with Audace Lunettes, which will represent the Montreal-based brand and its Phi collection across Canada.
J.F. REY is highlighting SLEDGE, a collection that combines titanium, acetate, carbon fibre and a patented screwless hinge system in an architectural approach to eyewear design.
HOYA Vision Care Canada has announced the availability of Sensity 3, Sensity Colours and Sensity Shine, expanding its light-adaptive lens portfolio for eye care professionals across Canada.
The American Academy of Optometry has announced its 2026 award recipients, recognizing leaders in optometry, vision science, education, research, clinical care and service.
J.F. REY has introduced IMAGINE, its 2026 kids eyewear collection designed for children aged 4 to 12, with frames emphasizing colour, transparency, comfort and durability.
Toulch Rimless has signed a Canadian distribution agreement with Audace Lunettes, which will represent the Montreal-based brand and its Phi collection across Canada.
