Wow Vision Therapy Blog

At Wow Vision Therapy, we’re privileged to witness stories of transformation every day—moments where frustration gives way to clarity, and hope replaces struggle. Today, we are proud to share the story of Jesse Cross, a bright and energetic boy who recently graduated from his vision therapy program after overcoming Convergence Insufficiency.

With permission from his mother, Katie Cross, we’re honored to highlight their family’s powerful journey—one filled with challenges, resilience, and life-changing breakthroughs.

A Familiar Place, A New Chapter

“Not only did I receive therapy here when I was 16, but I also worked here for several years… My experience here, both as a teenager and now as a parent, has been nothing short of amazing.”
—Katie Cross, mother

Katie’s connection to Wow Vision Therapy runs deep. Years ago, as a teenager, she completed her own vision therapy journey here—one that helped her thrive in high school and even allowed her to stop wearing prescription lenses. Years later, she returned to Wow as a team member, helping others navigate their own visual journeys.

So when her son Jesse began showing signs of visual difficulty—like “side-eyeing” and frequent clumsiness—Katie had a hunch that something more was going on.

“When we came in for his evaluation, I honestly didn’t think it would lead to much. I thought I was just being overly concerned… but I was wrong.”

Struggling to See, Struggling to Cope

Jesse’s challenges extended far beyond what was visible. He was struggling in school, frustrated with reading, and constantly running into objects. Simple joys—like catching a ball or watching a 3D movie—were confusing or impossible. He couldn’t see the 3D effects at all.

“We tried everything—rewards, encouragement, even taking him to see 3D movies—but it turned out he couldn’t actually see the 3D effects. He was working so hard to get his vision to ‘normal’ that he didn’t even realize what was happening.”

As Jesse’s academic frustrations grew, so did his anxiety. He shut down when things got hard. His self-esteem took a hit. The more overwhelmed he became, the harder it was for him to engage.

A Rocky Start, A Remarkable Turnaround

Initially, therapy was difficult for Jesse. He resisted the process and wasn’t easily motivated. But thanks to the persistence and creativity of his vision therapist, Ms. Krystal, things began to shift.

“At first, my son absolutely hated going to therapy… but over time, something changed.”

“He formed a strong bond with Ms. Krystal. She’s been so patient and amazing with my energetic son. She came up with new ideas to keep him engaged—he didn’t make her job easy.”

Jesse’s progress became undeniable. His reading improved by grade levels. His confidence grew. His coordination and motor skills took a major leap forward.

“The first time he caught a baseball, he screamed and jumped for joy. The same thing happened when he made his first basket in basketball.”

These moments, while seemingly small, were milestones of independence and self-belief—signs that Jesse was gaining more than visual skills. He was gaining confidence.

Vision Therapy in Action

As Jesse moved through his vision therapy program, the changes became part of everyday life:

• No more laying his head down or covering an eye when reading
• No more using a finger to follow words
• Fewer headaches
• Improved handwriting and proper letter direction
• Ability to copy from the board with ease
• Joy in reading and storytelling
• Less anxiety in busy environments like birthday parties
• Reduced need for sensory aids like noise-canceling headphones

“Now, he can read without laying his head down or covering his eye. His handwriting has improved so much, and he can now write his name in the correct direction.”

“There are so many small changes that are hard to put into words, but they’ve made a huge difference.”

A Grateful Heart and a Bright Future

Katie reflects on the experience with deep gratitude—for the team, the support, and the transformation she’s seen in her son.

“I’ve recommended this place to so many people, and I would encourage anyone to check it out. You never know if your child is struggling with something—it’s not always obvious.”

Jesse’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of comprehensive binocular vision evaluations and individualized therapy for children facing undiagnosed vision conditions.

Today, Jesse graduates not just from therapy—but into a world that looks clearer, feels more manageable, and is filled with greater possibility.

We couldn’t be prouder.

To learn more about how Wow Vision Therapy helps children like Jesse overcome binocular vision conditions such as Convergence Insufficiency, click here to contact us and schedule a comprehensive developmental vision evaluation.

By Dan L. Fortenbacher, O.D., FOVDR
Founder, Wow Vision Therapy