This episode explores what happens when art, calling, and compassion intersect, as ocularists Hannah and Dylan Bond share how making custom prosthetic eyes became both their life’s work and a form of healing service. From career pivots, illness, legacy craftsmanship, and falling in love at an ocularist conference, to building EYEMKR from the ground up during COVID, the conversation reveals how prosthetic eyes are not just medical devices but powerful tools for confidence, identity, and recovery, especially for children and those navigating trauma, insurance barriers, and life after eye loss.

“You’re loved, you’re cared about, you’re important. The things that you’ve gone through are traumatic and difficult to deal with, and it’s gonna be okay. There’s people out there that care about you, that dedicate their whole lives to helping people like you.” – Dylan Bond

Important points covered:

• Prosthetic eye-making is a calling, not just a skill: Both Hannah and Dylan were led to the profession through unexpected life shifts that felt deeply purposeful.
• Art and medicine are inseparable in ocularistry: Precision, creativity, and emotional sensitivity are all required to restore both comfort and confidence.
• Every prosthetic eye is fully custom, like a fingerprint: No two eyes, sockets, or life experiences are the same, making personalization essential.
• Children experience profound emotional healing through care-centered spaces: Creating a non-clinical, joyful environment helps kids process medical trauma safely.
• Insurance remains one of the biggest barriers to care: Despite being medically necessary, prosthetic eyes are often under-covered or denied.
• DIY eye kits expand access across the globe: EYEMKR’s at-home molding kits allow patients worldwide to receive custom eyes without travel.
• “Cool eyes” can unlock confidence and self-expression: Choosing to stand out rather than blend in can be a transformative moment for many wearers.
• Community and connection are critical after eye loss: Support groups, foundations, and shared stories reduce isolation and restore hope.

About Dylan and Hannah Bond:

Dylan and Hannah Bond are the co-founders of EYEMKR, a homegrown practice creating custom prosthetic eyes that blend artistry and innovation. Dylan entered ocularistry in 2018 at a high-volume practice in Sacramento, while Hannah joined him in 2019, bringing with her a deep family legacy in the craft that spans six generations. In 2022, they relocated to Chico, California, to launch EYEMKR with a mission to make prosthetic eyes more accessible, expressive, and empowering, serving clients both in person and worldwide through their groundbreaking EyeMaker Kit, a DIY mold-making experience.

Connect with Dylan and Hannah:

Email: [email protected] / [email protected]

Website: www.eyemkr.com

Instagram: @eye.mkr

TikTok: @eye.mkr

Connect with Meagan: Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook Group CommunityApply for a prosthetic eye here: www.intheblinkltd.com