My focus is comprehensive eye care and medically necessary contact lens fittings. I often describe comprehensive eye care as being the “primary care provider” for the eyes. I see patients for annual eye exams, glaucoma follow-ups, and urgent visits such as eye pain, corneal abrasions or ulcers, and conjunctivitis. On my medically necessary contact lens specialty days, I work with patients who have had corneal transplants or experienced eye trauma. I fit these patients with specialty hard contact lenses designed to restore and optimize their vision.
I knew I wanted to pursue a career in eye care when I was in high school. I had a strong love for biology, chemistry, and the sciences, and I was initially considering becoming a pharmacist.
A turning point came when my next-door neighbor—an optometrist—invited me to shadow her in her practice. As I watched her move from room to room caring for patients, one moment stood out clearly. She was reviewing a visual field test and recognized signs that suggested a possible brain lesion. In that moment, it all clicked for me.
The eyes truly are a window into overall health, including the brain. That experience showed me how impactful and far-reaching eye care can be, and from then on, I was completely hooked.
What I appreciate most about practicing at McFarland’s is how efficiently we’re able to care for our patients. I previously worked in a hospital setting, where growing patient demand and provider shortages often meant long wait times. I frequently felt frustrated knowing my patients needed care but couldn’t be seen soon enough.
At McFarland’s, I’m supported by an incredible team, and that makes a meaningful difference. We’re able to schedule patients more quickly, allow for same-day visits when needed, and truly be accessible. Being available and responsive to my patients is something I value deeply.
One of the most fulfilling parts of my job is fitting medically necessary contact lenses. Many of these patients have conditions such as corneal dystrophies, corneal transplants, or significant corneal trauma. Surgery is often not an option for them, yet their vision may be severely reduced.
Through custom scans and specialized hard lens fittings, I’m able to essentially provide these patients with a new or prosthetic cornea. Helping someone go from barely seeing the large “E” on the eye chart to achieving 20/20 vision is truly life-changing—and it’s something I feel incredibly passionate about.
Outside of patient care, I’m actively involved in leadership within the profession. I currently serve in leadership for the Arkansas Optometric Association and will be stepping into the role of President this year. This position involves leading board meetings, supporting continuing education events, and participating in advocacy and legislative initiatives that help advance patient care across the state.
On a personal level, I’m a mom of two wonderful children—a three-year-old daughter and a nine-month-old son. When I’m home, you’ll often find me dancing to Beauty and the Beast, painting nails, and singing Frozen songs. I truly enjoy balancing my professional life with meaningful family time.
