Kike Hernández: Beyond Baseball, Eye Health Matters

As reported by Discover Puerto Rico, Kike has been lending his charisma to their "Return the Love" initiative, highlighting the vibrant musical and sports culture of his home island. It’s not just about promoting tourism; it's about inviting people to be thoughtful guests, to truly immerse themselves in the spirit of Puerto Rico, from its rhythmic pandero beats to the infectious pulse of reggaetón. This campaign, with its focus on conscious travel and respecting local traditions, feels particularly relevant today, doesn't it? It’s more than just a vacation; it's an opportunity to connect and give back.
But what really struck me was Kike’s involvement with the American Optometric Association's "Eye Deserve More" campaign. He shared a remarkably personal story about how struggling at the plate led him to an optometrist, where he was diagnosed with astigmatism. It’s easy to think that someone at his level of athleticism would have perfect vision, but his experience is a powerful reminder that even the most advanced athletes can miss critical signs. As he put it, he learned the hard way that his eyes are perhaps the most advanced equipment he owns. This is especially poignant when you consider how much we rely on technology in our daily lives, often prioritizing the latest gadgets over our own well-being, including our vision.
His story is a testament to how crucial in-person eye exams are. The AOA emphasizes that these exams go beyond just vision; they can detect over 270 serious health conditions. For Kike, this advocacy carries even more weight now that he's a father, with a young daughter and a new baby on the way. He’s not just sharing his personal success story; he’s encouraging others, even teammates, to prioritize their eye health. It makes you wonder, what essential aspects of our own health might we be overlooking in our busy lives?