Reducing the effects of digital eye strain

How many pairs of spectacles and sunglasses do you own? 

I own six pairs – two optical styles and four sunglasses.

What style of frame do you prefer?

I like a panto-shaped optical frame. My first pair were a brown panto-shaped frame. I also have a pair of aviator sunglasses that I really like.

What is your prescription?

I wear plano optical lenses with blue blocking as I don’t need corrective lenses. I find that the blue block lenses stop my eyes from getting tired and they also stop me from getting sleep deprivation. I spend a lot of time on my computer and in front of screens for video analysis as well as studying for college.

"I find that the blue block lenses stop my eyes from getting tired and they also stop me from getting sleep deprivation"

What inspired you to create your own eyewear collection?

Inspiration came from sitting in front of my computer and my eyes getting tired, and afterwards finding it hard to sleep. As a rugby player, it is important that I get at least eight hours sleep for recovery.

I had heard of blue blocking lenses from a friend of mine in the industry, so I knew I could get frames glazed with blue block lenses in them but that I would have to go to an optician and get them made specially. I contacted my friend, who I had worked with previously endorsing a range of sunglasses, and asked him if I could get a collection together so that all the range would have blue block lenses in them. I realised that there was very little available on the market for people who need blue block lenses off the peg. I thought it would be a good idea if people could buy frames with blue block plano lenses in them to use on their computer.

How do the lenses help you?

Blue block lenses help reduce the effects of digital eye strain. This is caused from spending lots of time in front of digital screens. Personally, wearing these blue block glasses enabled me to spend a lot more time on the computer and looking at screens without affecting my sleep.

How did it feel to be part of the Ireland team that won the Six Nations grand slam title this year?

I am incredibly proud and delighted to have been a part of it.

Can you tell OT about your charity work?

In 2017 I was delighted to be appointed as an ambassador for the National Council for the Blind in Ireland. In my role, I have attended events in order to raise awareness for the charity.

One of the most enjoyable events was a dine in the dark event, where all of the people attending had to eat their meal blind folded. This gave us some insight into what it would be like not to have any sight. It was quite an experience.