Growing Eyes is an optometrist-founded nonprofit aimed at collaborating with local practices and providing financial support for the goods and services associated with myopia management.
As optometrists, we have been recommending myopia management for our patients for years. Over the years, the field has made significant strides, yet the prevalence of myopia in children has also continued to rise.
While we now possess various methods to provide care and treatments that can help reduce the progression of myopia in children, the financial aspect remains a significant challenge. In our daily practice, we encounter countless families eager to take proactive steps in managing their child’s rapidly changing prescription. Regrettably, these treatments are often not covered by insurance, leaving families burdened with the ongoing deterioration of their child’s vision, and the associated costs.
The core mission of Growing Eyes is to alleviate this financial burden while increasing awareness about well-documented and effective treatments for myopia management.
We thank our team and board members for their work and service. It is the shared vision and collective efforts that will allow us to make a meaningful impact in the field of myopia management and, most importantly, in the lives of countless children and families.
Meet Our Team
Deanna Olma, OD
Chief Executive Officer
Deanna made the leap to Oregon from Kansas (Rock Chalk!) to pursue her education at Pacific University’s optometry school in Forest Grove. She loves her profession and her role as an optometrist in the Portland metropolitan area, caring for individuals of all ages. Her compassionate and inviting demeanor shines in exams, making her the trusted go-to provider at her clinic for evaluating pediatric patients aged six months and older.
Amidst her daily interactions, she observes the rising prevalence of myopia among children and the profound impact it has on their lives. Recognizing the financial challenges that many families face in managing myopia, she took matters into her own hands and founded the Growing Eyes nonprofit to provide much-needed support to those who may not otherwise afford it.
Deanna established strong roots in Oregon after meeting her husband during optometry school. This is now where they call home with their two children and their dog, Rocket. In her free time, she loves to attend Timbers games with her family and friends, hike the beautiful Oregon trails and tries to perfect her cake decorating and cooking skills.
Amand Tasripin, OD
Chief Financial Officer
Amand, a native of New York City, embarked on his optometric journey, initially honing his skills as an optician for over a decade. Drawing from this wealth of experience, he went on to literally write the book on optician practices. Eager to expand his expertise, Amand pursued his optometry education at Pacific University in Forest Grove, Oregon.
Enthralled by the vibrant culture and warm community, Amand decided to make Portland his home after graduating. Today, he continues to bring his passion for optometry and dedication to exceptional eye care to the people of this unique and dynamic city. Within the exam room, he embodies the role of a jack of all trades. From calculating magnification for individuals with low vision to seamlessly transitioning into pediatric exams, where he engages in discussions about myopia management with area families, Amand effortlessly wears many hats.
Driven by a passion for making a positive impact, Amand always knew nonprofit work was in his future. Finding the right cause was crucial, and it led him to Growing Eyes—a perfect fit for his commitment to fostering eye health and well-being within the community.
In his downtime from work, Amand can be found channeling his inner mentor, helping his daughter master the fine arts and refine her skills as she advances her taekwondo black belt—often playing the role of a living punching bag with pride. During baseball season, you’ll catch Amand passionately rooting for his beloved team, the New York Yankees. With the remaining precious moments, he enjoys collaborating with his wife on the restoration of their century-old Portland house.
Michael Olma, OD
Chief Operations Officer
Michael boasts a rich background in the optometric field, having traversed roles from an optician to a general manager, and now thriving as an optometrist and the owner of a successful practice. Beyond his dedicated service to patients, Michael extends his expertise to mold the next generation of optometry professionals. As an instructor for ophthalmic dispensing and ocular disease labs at his alma mater, Pacific University, he plays a pivotal role in shaping the skills and knowledge of aspiring optometrists.
Michael goes the extra mile by instilling the significance of myopia management in his students, actively coordinating student volunteers for free myopia management clinics hosted by his practice. This multi-faceted commitment underscores his passion for both patient care and the education of future practitioners.
This family bleeds green and gold. His passion for the Timbers is easy to see and started during optometry school, where following the team and attending the games offered an amazing distraction when the studies of optometry school were stressful. That love continued on after graduation – rain or shine, you’ll find him and his family rooting for the Timbers. When it’s off-season, he loves to tinker with coding on games with his two children and perfecting the best pizza dough for his loving wife, family and friends to enjoy.
Theresa (Tess) Lydick
Secretary
Tess possesses a deep appreciation for the intricacies of the ophthalmic world. While currently thriving as an environmental geologist at a distinguished Portland-area firm, her professional journey began as an office manager in an optometric practice. In that role, she gained invaluable insights into practice management, mastering the nuances of insurance billing and benefits.
Tess stands as a stellar asset to our nonprofit, infusing it with her vibrant, affectionate, and joyful energy. Her welcoming demeanor makes her the quintessential first point of contact, embodying the inclusive spirit that defines our organization.
In her leisure moments, Tess dedicates her time to the care and companionship of their lively puppy, Betty Lou. Multiple walks a day are a must, as Tess has learned that anything less may earn her a disapproving “stink face” from this high-energy pup. On a personal note, Tess and her partner are eagerly anticipating their upcoming nuptials, set to take place in 2025.
When she seeks relaxation, Tess can be found curled up with a captivating sci-fi novel or engaging her mind with intricate puzzles. However, a word of caution for those around her – Tess is a formidable contender in board games and a regular participant in Settlers of Catan tournaments. Brace yourselves for a spirited and strategic gaming experience in her company!
Meet Our Board Members
Melissa Tasripin
Mathew Purcell
William Malay
Incorporated in August 2023, our non-profit organization is dedicated to providing myopia management support to families within the greater Portland, Oregon metropolitan area. Our vision is to expand our outreach to communities across both Oregon and Washington in the near future.
Officially, a 501(c)3 organization – a significant step toward our mission of making a positive impact on the eye health and well-being of children and families.
We are excited about our journey ahead and the potential to serve a broader region. Together, we aim to create a brighter future for our community and beyond.
Growing Eyes 