HERE SHE IS

FEATURE heresheis

When did you know this was your career path? Eyes and vision captivated me long before I knew very much about them. I spent my early childhood in Nicaragua and my grandfather was the only person his age who had really good vision in our community. It set him apart and all the kids knew him to have “bionic eyes.” Unknown to me at the time, he had been able to have cataract surgery while living and working in the United States. As an elective surgery not readily available to others in that community, I saw firsthand how much of a difference it made in his life – thus began my fascination with cataract surgery. Now, not only do I have the privilege of being the instrument by which vision can be improved/restored through cataract surgery, I also have the joy of being a primary eye care doctor – which means I often get to see entire families and take care of my patients over many years. I am so blessed to be an ophthalmologist… it is the perfect fit for me.

How do you carve out “Me Time”? During my last year of medical school, for the first time in my life, I took a breath and committed to taking care of myself. It sounds so ordinary, but up until then, my needs (sleep for example) had never taken precedence. Having been so laser-focused on my career meant that, in many ways, I had neglected my own health. I was living a sedentary life and eating what felt convenient or comforting while spending long days and nights in front of textbooks and in hospitals; but I realized that I had to change course. I started exercising regularly and eating better. This was transformative – not just for my physical health, but for my mental health and my ability to manage the inevitable difficulties that come with a career in medicine. I am not only healthier and happier, but I am better equipped to handle life.

What is your secret to a balanced life? One strategy that I employ is to complete ALL of my work for the day before leaving the clinic or hospital, even if I have to come in early or stay late. I have also found it hugely beneficial to plan my exercise routine between my time at work and time at home. This allows me to reset and destress before rejoining my family. Another avenue is music – both singing and dancing. I have no singing talent whatsoever, but I love singing at the top of my lungs and my husband and I love spinning to salsa music until we fall over.

You said you are inspired by gratitude, could you expand on that? A while back, I started a daily ritual of gratitude and I have been amazed by the magical changes. It has been so life-changing for me that I am absolutely determined to practice gratitude each day. I say practice because it truly is an exercise, and just like with physical exercise, after doing it for a while you start to notice changes. This has been an avenue through which I have found resilience and joy. In Glennon Doyle’s words, “When I feel lacking – I don’t need new things, I need new eyes with which to see the things I already have.” w

jennifer dr. Dr. Jennifer Lira lira is a comprehensive ophthalmologist at Graystone Eye, specializing in cataract surgery and primary eye care, with a focus on glaucoma. Graystone has four locations – Hickory, Lincolnton, Lenoir and Boone – and can be reached at 888.626.2020 or via their website at www.graystone-eye.com.