The Vision Hub at Freeport

THE ONLY PLACE I WILL EVER RECOMMEND FROM THIS DAY FORWARD: I am proud to say The Vision Hub in DeFuniak Springs actually cares about their clientele. I scheduled an appointment for Monday, November the 17th at 2 pm. I arrived already nervous, filled out my paper work and waited patiently. Not that it took too long at all, within minutes I was being called to follow the new technician to start my exam. Unfortunately, I can not for the life of me remember her name. She made the start of my experience memorable. When she sensed my hesitation she immediately treated me like a friend or family and began to joke and laugh with me. I was able to settle down and focus which was needed to happen with their FUTURISTIC equipment. Once, I was done with the scary part, (or so I thought) I was sat down in a room and was warmly greeted by Matthew and 4th year assistant. They went through the normal vision and depth perception tests. Then, came to a step I have never experienced before. They had to dilate my eyes. They used numbing drops first then the dilation eye drops after. They were so sweet before heading out and let me know the doctor would be in shortly to finish off my appointment. Warning: this is when I started to struggle.... To reiterate I have never had my eyes dilated before. I have a crippling anxiety/panic disorder. I was alone in the room when everything got blurry. I felt a weird sensation in my eyes. I became dizzy and everything began to spiral from there. I felt like I was never going to see again. My heart started racing, my palms were sweating and the feeling of not being able to breathe or swallow took over me. By the time the doctors assistant came in (which was not long either) I was standing over the sink trying to console myself. I had dabbed cold water on my neck, I was trying to control my breathing and only focusing on one spot in the room. She walked in, I believe her name was Natalie?, I might be wrong, I returned to my seat and she initiated conversation. As we talked she realized I was uncomfortable and struggling. Instead of starting the last steps of the examination, she chose to sit down and talk to me. We did breathing techniques together as she talked me through the procedures. Then, Doctor Laird entered the room. Doctor Laird's assistant informed her on the situation. I was a mess. I was crying and freaking out. They took their time to explain what dilation is, why everything was blurry, and to inform me on how long it would last. I calmed down enough for the last steps of the examination to be finished. I apologized for any and all reactions and burdens. They were both so understanding and compassionate. Once they heard I had never experienced it before they were surprised at how "well" I handled it. I cannot explain how much it meant to my mental state that they both were so concerned. I thanked them both as I headed to the lobby to find some frames that I liked. TO MY SURPRISE! The momma bear of all momma bears was working as a consultant! CeCe was a saving grace! Obviously I wasnt going to hug the doctor and assistants but when I saw CeCes face (which was still blurry) I was greeted with a warm hug and gentle back rub. We go way back and to have that support in the moment meant everything to me. I wasn't easy on her. I probably tried on every frame that was in the building. She was patient and more than willing to feed into MY delusion that there was going to be one (and only one) special frame that was meant for my facial structure. To my surprise and shock there were TWO! ( I have a chubby chipmunk face) By the end of it I couldn't decide. Thats when she taught me about different lenses. I could get a special pair for night time, when my astigmatism is the WORST, ANNNNND I could get one for during the day for my far distance blurriness that is effecting my everyday life. All in all, we went with both frames and 2 different lenses. I couldn't be more satisfied! From beginning to end I honestly felt like I was genuinely cared about. My well being meant more than a bill to them.

Dr Laird and her nurse are absolutely wonderful. I had a very very nice visit. Started going to that office in 1997 with my children whom are now grown. Im now 61 and was so pleased, felt very welcomed and at home. I think the whole staff was very kind & professional! Very pleased with my Dr and sweetheart of a nurse who cared for me. Ty all very much. Liz

First eye doc appointment, Wonderful experience, everyone was so friendly I went in so so anxious but ebony, Marley and Marissa made it lighter. Definitely 100% recommend vision hub defuniak springs.

Had an amazing visit with this location. Entire staff is quite friendly and engaging. Marissa especially. Very kind hearted and very down to earth while maintaining professionalism. Location was very tidy as well

The Tech Sarah was great to work with she explained what she was doing and why. Dr. Laird was awesome also. She gave great advice to my daughter about her old glasses and was quick and efficient.

On Christmas Eve, I was truly in need of a miracle. I had to work at 4pm and I had just broken my last pair of my contacts and Sarah(the tech) Marissa (the front desk associate) really blessed me that day with a sample. I cried because they are expensive and I cannot thank them enough. They made this place feel welcoming and like family.

Mrs Marissa was all smiles when I walked through the door first time patient and the first time I’ve been to the eye doctor in a long time, I was nerves but her and all the other works assured me nothing to be afraid of. Walked me through everything they were doing they all were amazing would recommend to anyone

I actually had a good time at my eye appointment. Tiffany the receptionist was friendly and greeted me and answered all my questions. Sarah the tech was calm and patient with me as she did my follow up. Dr Laird answered all my questions about my eye heakth. Marissa and Lisa were In optical, I needed glasses and they listened to my style and taste and I found the cutest glasses. They did a great job at getting me a bunch as I tried on took selfies and put my glasses on to view the pictures lol they answered all my questions and told me which ones they preferred and which ones weren't the best fit. I appreciate their honesty and help.

I love The Vision Hub!!! Everyone is so helpful and nice. My last visit Stefani helped with any questions I had and explained in depth about all my questions about contacts that I didn't know. Now for Marissa....... I LOVE HER!!! She knows me so well, since I've been going to this office for years. She helped me pick my latest pair of new classes and I'm excited to get them. She helped by knowing the styles and colors I like, and assisting with the enhancements I wanted. The team at the DFS office is stellar, 1000/10 would recommend.