Gail Harrison

I have now tried 3 different types of tests by different opticians to create tinted lenses for Irlen syndrome. The Irlen method has provided me with lenses which have the mildest colouration whilst reducing glare and movement of writing the most. Being assessed by someone with personal experience and who specialises in Irlen syndrome has helped me to understand the causes for difficult experiences. I can read much more than I could with lenses made using the intuitive colourometer. I have received advice on improving light regimes at work and taking omega 3 supplements. I feel more relaxed in myself, can do more normal things and feel more positive about going to work knowing I have better glasses and lighting to help me cope.
I would recommend the screening and treatment technique; it gave me a greater understanding of my disability and restored my self esteem. My reading level increase immediately by placing on the coloured filters.

Luke Harrison

Luke is 9 years old. He has been officially diagnosed with Dyspraxia and Dyslexia.

Luke had originally been prescribed some pink/purple coloured lenses by our local optician. There were no specific tests carried out to help to choose these coloured lenses, our Optician said that these colours had been proven to help children with Dyslexia and Dyspraxia. Luke tried these glasses for approx 6 months. We noticed quite quickly that Luke would look under or over the lenses rather than through them, and would ask to take them off as he didn't like wearing them. He did persevere with them, but they didn't appear to offer any benefits at all.

Since we had tried so many things to help Luke, we decided to go to our local Irlen centre to have Luke properly assessed to see if coloured Irlen lenses would be of any benefit to Luke.

The assessments carried out at our local Irlen centre were very easy to do and Luke felt very relaxed and comfortable throughout. During the assessments it became apparent that Luke was experiencing blurring of the words, slight movement and coloured dots would dance around the page.

Luke later went back to the Irlen centre for further assessment to see exactly what coloured lenses he would benefit from. He tried lots of different coloured lenses, varying in different shades. At the end of the assessment, Luke found some green coloured lenses to be of benefit. He was then assessed to see if he would benefit from further layers of colour. Luke found benefit from a light shade of yellow when laid over the top of the green.

Before Luke started wearing his Irlen lenses, he found it very hard to explain what he was experiencing when reading, since he had never known any different. Reading had always been difficult for Luke, he was only able to read for a few minutes at a time, was very fidgety and found the whole experience a huge ordeal. Now whilst wearing his Irlen lenses Luke can read for quite some time, he sits reasonably still and has actually admitted that he is starting to enjoy reading. His reading ability has improved dramatically since wearing his Irlen lenses.

Luke had also experienced Migraines prior to wearing Irlen lenses. Since wearing them, he has not had any problems with Migraines at all.

Luke takes part in our local Tae Kwon Do classes. Even other parents have commented that they have noticed that Luke is much more stable and coordinated when he is wearing his Irlen lenses.

Luke has adjusted well to wearing his glasses. In fact his friends think he looks quite cool. I no longer have to remind him to put his glasses on as he can appreciate the benefits for himself.

Luke and I would and have recommended other people for Irlen assessment.

Gail & Luke Harrison