In this episode, Denise is joined by Dr. Miki Zilnicki for a thoughtful conversation about what parents can do when they’re told to “wait and see” — and how families can stay engaged, informed, and empowered during that waiting period.

Together, they explore why waiting is sometimes recommended, what it does and doesn’t mean, and how parents can advocate for their child’s visual development without feeling adversarial or overwhelmed. The discussion also touches on the importance of seeking additional opinions, understanding differences in professional perspectives, and recognizing when it’s appropriate to ask deeper questions.

Denise also introduces an emerging idea she’s developing — using music and movement as a supportive, complementary way to help families stay connected to their child’s visual development. While not a replacement for clinical care, this approach reflects Denise’s background in music education and her belief that gentle, rhythmic movement can help parents remain engaged and aware while they’re navigating next steps.

This episode is especially relevant for parents who feel stuck in uncertainty, unsure whether to wait, act, or seek additional guidance.

Topics Covered

• What doctors usually mean when they tell parents to “wait”
• Why children are sometimes considered “too young” for certain interventions
• How parents can stay actively involved during a waiting period
• The role of patient and parent advocacy in vision care
• When and how to seek additional professional opinions
• Navigating conflicting advice without losing confidence
• Why awareness and connection matter — even before therapy begins
• Introducing music and movement as a supportive, non-clinical tool for families

Who This Episode Is For

• Parents who have been told to “wait and see” and feel unsure what to do next
• Families navigating mixed messages in vision care
• Listeners interested in patient advocacy and informed decision-making
• Parents who want ways to stay connected to their child’s development during periods of uncertainty

Key Takeaway

Waiting doesn’t have to mean doing nothing. Staying informed, asking questions, and remaining connected to your child’s experience can make a meaningful difference — even before any formal intervention begins.

Dr. Zilnicki's website and Vision is more than 20/20 podcast: https://twinforksoptometry.com/vision-is-more-than-20-20-podcast/

Questions for Dr. Zilnicki? Here's her email: drzilnicki@twinforksoptometry.com

Join the Healing our Sight Facebook Group here: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063570817348

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In this episode of Healing Our Sight, Denise reconnects with Melissa Daniels—vision therapist, educator, and former strabismus patient—to explore how stepping into the role of therapist changed the way she understands healing.

Melissa shares what she wishes she had known earlier in her own journey, how her perspective shifted once she began working with patients, and why the mindset we bring to vision therapy can make such a big difference. You’ll hear them discuss:

• How becoming a vision therapist highlighted Melissa’s understanding of her own strabismus
• What she would do differently if she could restart her journey
• Mindsets and habits that support consistent progress in vision therapy
• Common beliefs or expectations that unintentionally slow down success

Whether you’re a parent navigating strabismus with your child, an adult working to improve your own vision, or a professional supporting patients, this conversation offers both hope and grounded insight into what real progress looks like.

Connect with Melissa:

Website: https://strabismussolutions.com

YouTube: Strabismus to Stereopsis — https://www.youtube.com/@strabismustostereopsis

If you liked this episode, click here to send me a message. I also appreciate guest and topic suggestions.

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Former Division I football player Brady Holt suffered a massive traumatic brain injury as a college freshman when he was ejected from the front window of his car going 75 mph on the freeway. He was initially not expected to live. After surviving, he was not expected to walk or function on his own. He beat all the odds and is now working, married and supporting his wife and daughter and once again able to drive. His story shows that with persistence, vision therapy can help restore visual abilities and independence.

If you liked this episode, click here to send me a message. I also appreciate guest and topic suggestions.

Click the link above to message me directly. It comes to me as FAN MAIL! How great is that? Just click on the place that says, "If you liked this episode CLICK HERE:"