OPTOMETRIST

DR. JIM ASUCHAK

Jim was born and raised in Fort Macleod where his parents still operate a small farm. He later attended the University of Lethbridge and then onto the University of Waterloo to earn his Doctor of Optometry degree. Jim returned to Lethbridge in 1999 and has been pleased with his decision ever since. He has enjoyed the friendships he has made with patients in the office and considers the staff at Optical Studio family. In his spare time, Jim enjoys hanging out with his son Tyler. He can also be found in his garage working on his old cars or mountain biking in the coulees.

OPTOMETRIST

DR. GEORGE DAY

George grew up on a small farm west of Fort Macleod. He enjoyed playing multiple sports for FP Walshe High School. George attended the University of Lethbridge, earning a B.Sc. in Biochemistry. He then went on to attend the Doctor of Optometry program at the University of Waterloo. In 2008, he moved back to Lethbridge and joined the team at Optical Studio and is very happy with his decision. He loves coming to work in such a friendly and up-to-date office, and really appreciates having a great mentor in Dr. Jim Asuchak. When not at work, George enjoys training for sprint triathlons with his wife Jen, and snowboarding in the mountains.

OPTOMETRIST

DR. MELISSA GROENEWEG

Melissa was born and raised in Fort Macleod, Alberta. She grew up on her parents’ farm just north of Fort Macleod and enjoyed being very involved in local and regional 4-H programs throughout her school years. She completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Lethbridge, and later went on to continue her education at Western University of Health Sciences in Southern California where she earned her Doctor of Optometry. Dr. Groeneweg completed four outstanding externships in her 4th year as an optometry student. She was able to experience a vision therapy practice at Focus Vision Therapy in Meridian, Idaho, was exposed to a wide range of ocular disease and surgeries at The Eye Institute of Utah in Salt Lake City, Utah, experienced a highly medically-based private practice at the Cheyenne Vision Clinic in Cheyenne, Wyoming and at Image Optometry in Vancouver, BC. When she is not in the office, Dr. Groeneweg enjoys spending time on the farm, volunteering with local organizations, and enjoying the outdoors.

OPTOMETRIST

DR. ASHLEY OLFORD

Ashley was born and raised in Mount Pearl, NL where she completed her undergraduate degree in Behavioural Neuroscience at Memorial University. She later went on to attend graduate school at Dalhousie University in Halifax, NS where she received a diploma in Clinical Vision Science. Ashley then worked as an Orthoptist, providing testing and management of eye movement disorders, at pediatric and adult ophthalmology clinics in Winnipeg, Toronto, and Vancouver. She later received her Doctor of Optometry degree with honours from the University of Waterloo. During her training she did externships in Canada, the US, and Hong Kong, as well as a volunteer eye care mission in Ecuador. When she is not in the office, Ashley can be found travelling, staying active, or volunteering at a local or international organization.

OPTOMETRIST

DR. STEVEN HA

Steven was born and raised in Ottawa where he completed his Bachelor of Science with honours in Ophthalmic Medical Technology in 2014. He was involved with the University of Ottawa Eye Institute and later worked as a Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist for 2 years in the laser and refractive surgery field. Steven received his Doctor of Optometry at the University of Waterloo. Throughout optometry school, he developed special interests in dry eye, specialty contact lenses, and myopia control. He had the opportunity to be involved with a mission trip to Camana, Peru and hopes to continue humanitarian endeavors throughout his career. Dr. Ha was introduced to Western Canada by his fiancée (Dr. Unick!) who grew up between Regina and Calgary. Steven is looking forward to calling Lethbridge home and to be able to raise a family. When not in the office, he enjoys running, hiking, snowboarding, and skiing.

OPTOMETRIST

DR. ANYSIA UNICK

Anysia was raised between Regina and Calgary. She completed her Bachelor of Science in Biology, Microbiology, and Cellular Biology while attending the University of Georgia on an athletic gymnastics scholarship. She returned to Canada to attend the University of Waterloo and earned her Doctor of Optometry degree in 2020. We are proud to say Anysia graduated with the highest academic standing in her class, receiving the College of Optometrists of Ontario General Proficiency Award. Anysia has developed a passion for children’s vision and holds a special interest in pediatric eye exams and myopia management. She is a guest lecturer with Dr. Ha at Lethbridge College and presents “Pediatric Eye Health” to the second year nursing students twice a year. Anysia and her husband (Dr. Steven Ha) have chosen Lethbridge as their home to serve the needs of Southern Alberta. They enjoy the outdoors and look forward to exploring the mountains.

OPTOMETRIST

DR. SHAE MORRISON

Shae is originally from Grande Prairie, Alberta, where she started working in an optometry office at a young age.  It was there that she sparked the interest, and the drive, to become an Optometrist herself. 

She went on to complete her undergraduate degree at the University of Alberta, followed by her Doctor of Optometry degree at the University of Waterloo, where she earned honors throughout.  Upon graduation, she received awards for excellence in clinical care, as well as contact lens care.  She practiced for six years in Airdrie, Alberta, and then moved to Lethbridge, to be closer to family.  Shae has a special interest in pediatric vision, dry eye, and enjoys providing continuing care to patients of all ages. 

Shae is thrilled to join the Optical Studio team, and looks forward to building lasting connections with the people of Lethbridge.  She loves helping people find solutions for their concerns, and genuinely looks forward to meeting you.  Away from the office, you can find her at the park with her husband and two young daughters, cooking up a new recipe, or curled up with a good book. 

CORPORATE SERVICES

SHARI

She/Her

I joined the team at Optical Studio after many years of providing Practice Management and Human Resources in the dental/medical industry. My favourite things to do in my off time is being with family, travel, home renovations, working in the yard, boating at the lake, and generally anything that involves being around good food and good company. I am on the Board of Directors with the Rotary Club of Lethbridge and have served in humanitarian initiatives in Dominican Republic and post Hurricane Harvey cleanup in Houston, Texas, as well as many other local community volunteer opportunities.

CONTACT LENS MANAGER

MIRANDA

I grew up in Cardston, Alberta and enjoyed my summer after high school working as a server in Waterton. Even though I probably spilt more drinks than I served, I loved it! I have worked at Optical Studio since I was 19 years old (so for 6 years)! My favourite thing about Optical Studio is our amazing team. It is my goal that everyone else at Optical Studio loves coming to work as much as I do! When I am not at work I am usually at the gym or at home with my frenchton, Boone!

CLINICAL MANAGER

LESLIE

She/Her

I grew up in BC but have called Lethbridge home since 2006. I enjoy serving my community and am President of the Board for my children’s daycare and volunteer for the Lethbridge Firefighter’s Charity. When I am not at the office, I spend time with my husband, two daughters and sheepdogs, Emma and Bromwell, on our acreage and as much time outside as possible.

OPTICAL MANAGER

VICTORIA

She/Her

This past year I completed my Certified Optometric Assistant program. When I am not at work, you will most likely find me with my family and, more often than not, away at a hotel for the weekend exploring some other city. A few words I live by, “Dream big, work hard, stay focused and surround yourself with good people”.

MANAGING OPTICIAN & LICENSED OPTICIAN

TAMMI

She/Her

I have been a licensed optician for 17 years. It is my goal for everyone that leaves our clinic, to leave feeling like they have had the best customer service around. There are so many reasons why I love working at Optical Studio but mainly it is the amazing team. When I am not at work, my hobbies include spending time with my husband, two daughters, and my two crazy dogs. I also love camping and taking pictures.

OPTICAL DISPENSING TECHNICIAN & CCOA

JUDY

She/Her

I have been working at Optical Studio since October 2020 and wanted to expand my knowledge in the optical industry. This lead to completing the CCOA program in June of 2022. My goal in life is to help others and show kindness.

OPTICAL DISPENSING TECHNICIAN

BRYANNE

SHE/HER

OPTICAL DISPENSING TECHNICIAN

CHASE

He/Him

I grew up in Strathmore and came down to Lethbridge for school. I eventually bought a house and ended up staying here! I have been with Optical Studio since February 2022. I love to collect sneakers and show them off while I am working in the gallery. With my fashion sense, I plan to help everyone find the perfect pair of glasses!

OPTICAL DISPENSING TECHNICIAN

ANITA

She/Her

I started working at Optical Studio in March 2022 and it instantly became a passion of mine. My goal is to learn something new every year and this year I’ve decided to learn how to roller skate. Some of my other hobbies include taking polaroid’s, going to the gym and anything to do with my cats!

OPTICAL DISPENSING TECHNICIAN

BRITTANY

She/Her

I was drawn to Optical Studio after being a patient for a few years, because I always felt very welcomed and informed while I was there. My goal is to make every patient I help feel the same way. In my free time I enjoy doing home and yard projects, riding my horses, and photography. A bucket list item that I’m currently trying to check off is learning how to golf so I can plan some fun holidays with my husband!

OPTICAL DISPENSING TECHNICIAN

SHERRY

I’m a DEN certified Optical Dispensing Technician with 14 years of experience. I was born and raised in Fernie, BC so outdoor activities have always been a part of my lifestyle. I have a wonderful husband, 2 children and 5 grandchildren that I like to spend my spare time with! I love working at Optical Studio because of the passion the whole team has for great patient care. I really like to connect with our patients and work with them to find the best possible eyewear solution. 

OPTICAL DISPENSING TECHNICIAN

KIM

OPTICIAN

LEANNE

I’ve been a licensed optician for nine years.  I enjoy working at Optical Studio as the team here is very warm, welcoming & friendly & strives for the best customer service!  When not working, I usually walk, hike, do baking, or do crafts! My goal is to learn something new every day (big or small), and the most unusual place I have been was while working on a cruise ship, in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, doing circles.

My favourite quote is, “How wonderful it is nobody needs to wait a single moment before starting to improve the world” Anne Frank

OPTICAL DISPENSING TECHNICIAN

KELLY

LAB TECHNICIAN

LEDEAN

I started working at Optical Studio after meeting Dr. Asuchak while mountain biking. My favourite thing about working here is the atmosphere. The people here make it amazing. My goal is to find something positive in every day. The most unusual place I’ve been is the staff cafeteria at the Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. We took a tour there with the scientists and astronauts and I felt like I absorbed some IQ points from the air.

LAB TECHNICIAN & CCOA

ANNA

They/She

I’ve been working on improving my knowledge in the optical world since I started working at Optical Studio! My goal is to expand my knowledge in the optical science. My most useless talent is losing bobby pins and magically finding them in the wash.

PATIENT CARE COORDINATOR

MACLAYNE

She/Her

I recently graduated from university with my degree in Neuroscience and love to learn new skills, which is why I enjoy working at Optical Studio! I have a twin sister that lives with me here in Lethbridge. If I could only eat one thing for the rest of my life it would be grilled cheese sandwiches – nothing compares.

PATIENT CARE COORDINATOR

MIKAYLA

She/Her

I grew up primarily in Edmonton but have spent most of my adulthood bouncing between all of the major Alberta cities. Prior to Optical Studio, I was in the coffee industry for a number of years while also studying psychology. While I haven’t been in the optical industry long, I’ve quite enjoyed getting to know our incredible team as well as our incredible patients. The best piece of advice I’ve ever received is “the more you know, the more you know you don’t know.” and I definitely look forward to learning more at Optical Studio. In my spare time, I alter/mend/sell vintage clothing and am also a big horror movie enthusiast and VHS collector. 

PATIENT CARE COORDINATOR

EMMA

I have always felt a little bit country and a little bit city. Most because growing up in a small town had me dreaming and drew me to the city lights. Which is where I discovered a genuine interest in many things and found my life goal was to never stop learning. But it was my passion for art that led me to an Interior Design education with a background in social science. Those same goals and passions are what drew me to Optical Studio where I am excited to be a part of this vibrant team and to help people on the daily. On top of that, I find myself falling in love with the small-town life again as you’ll see me mostly at the Fort Macleod location. 

PATIENT CARE COORDINATOR

CALEIGH

I started working at Optical Studio in October 2022 and have loved learning about the Optical industry in such a friendly environment. Something not a lot of people know about me is that I spent a majority of my childhood living in Bolivia, South America, and learnt Spanish as my second language. If you don’t see me at the front desk, I am either nannying  or out camping/ ATV riding with my family!

PATIENT CARE COORDINATOR

KAELA

PATIENT CARE COORDINATOR

KERRIN

OPTOMETRIC SCRIBE & CCOA

KENNADI

She/Her

I have been working at Optical Studio since February 2018 and the atmosphere here is unbelievable. I have my Canadian Certified Optometric Assistant certification and it is my goal to use it to move up in the office and do more on top of assisting Dr. Day. I was born and raised in Taber, Alberta. Outside of work I love to spend time with my friends, family and my dog Groot!

OPTOMETRIC SCRIBE & CCOA

KENNEDY

She/Her

I have been working at Optical Studio since September 2020 and finished my Canadian Certified Optometric Assistant program in May 2022! As an Optometric Scribe for Dr. Asuchak, I have been able to utilize my Kinesiology degree and continue learning! Another favourite part of my job is working as a Content and Brand specialist in marketing because I get to use my creativity in new and exciting ways. I adore travelling and have been to spots like South Africa, Japan, and France! In my free time, I love to play games, hang out with my kitties, and crochet!

DIAGNOSTIC TECHNICIAN & CCOA

DES

They/Them

I have a university background in neuroscience and love to learn! It is my goal to continue to learn new things in every aspect of my life. Something not a lot of people know about me is a secret…because if I told you then a lot of people would know.

DIAGNOSTIC & DRY EYE TECHNICIAN

DALLAS

She/Her

In 2018 I completed my Medical Office Assistant program. I wasn’t sure what type of medical office I wanted to work in, I knew I didn’t want to work in a general clinic or hospital. So I spent several years in the food and beverage service industry, working late nights, and travelling every chance I could, while I figured out what I wanted to do. I recently joined the team at Optical Studio, and while I am new to the optical industry, I love getting the chance to learn something new each day. My goal is to continue to improve my knowledge and understanding on all of the advanced technology, while connecting with patients and fellow team members.  In my spare time I enjoy staying active, playing board games with friends, going on road trips…the list goes on. Something high on my bucket list currently is to go on an African safari.

DIAGNOSTIC TECHNICIAN

BROOKLYN

DRY EYE TECHNICIAN

TEYAH

She/Her

I grew up in Raymond, Alberta, playing every sport I could. I continued my education and athletics at the University of Alberta, playing rugby and studying Kinesiology. Unfortunately, a few too many knee injuries required me to take a break from sports, I moved home and took a break from school as well. During this time, I worked with my uncle at his new business, True North Axe Throwing, and figured out what I wanted to do. I stumbled upon the Medical Esthetician program and fell in love. I moved to Calgary to complete the program in February of 2022 and worked in the skincare industry right up until I joined the Optical Studio team. Although I haven’t been in optometry for long, I am SO excited to continuously learn to provide the best services! When I’m not at work I enjoy working out, baking, spoiling my dog Reggie, or being around my family! 

DRY EYE TECHNICIAN

SAM

THIS COULD BE YOU

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