Getting to Know our Opticians

OPTICIAN: Opticians are technicians trained to design, verify and fit eyeglass lenses and frames, contact lenses, and other devises to correct eye sight. They use prescriptions supplied by ophthalmologists or optometrists, but do not test vision or write prescriptions for visual correction. Opticians are not permitted to diagnose or treat eye diseases. 

How did you become interested in eyewear and what kind of training, if any, did you have?

I became interested in the eyecare field after working part-time as a student in an Optometry office. I started off recalling patients when they were due for eye exams, then progressed into small glasses adjustment and extra testing.

 

What brought you to the Saugeen Shores area and to Saugeen Shores Family Eye Care in particular?

I have been coming to Saugeen Shores since I was a kids, visiting with friends and family, camping, going the beach, etc. and have always really enjoyed the area. I was referred to this office by my grandmother who has been a patient for many years. 

 

What interests or excites you the most in the field of eye wear?   

What I find most rewarding about my profession is when someone who has not been able to see clearly for many years puts on their new prescription, whether it’s glasses or contacts, and is shocked that the corrected eyewear can make such a difference in their lives.

 

Many people think they are restricted to one particular shape of eyewear, is this true?

Once someone has found a style they like in eyewear, they tend to stick with it. However, certain face shapes can wear more than one profile. For example, a person with an oval face could wear both a square and a round frame shape.

How did you become interested in eyewear and what kind of training, if any, did you have?

I became interested in eyecare at a young age. My Uncle owned a busy Optical store in Owen Sound. Growing up I was fascinated with all of the equipment used to make glasses.

 

What brought you to the Saugeen Shores area and to Saugeen Shores Family Eye Care in particular?

My family moved to Saugeen Shores to be closer to my husband’s work. Having previously been employed in an Optometry office for 12 years, I was looking for a similar setting because the partnership between Optometrists and Opticians provides learning opportunities for both, as well as the best possible vision care for the patient.

 

What interests or excites you the most in the field of eye wear?   

I love to learn!!! There is always information about new products (lenses, coatings, materials, etc.). Being about to help people see better by listening to their needs and providing the latest products to get them the best possible vision excites me.