Today we’d like to introduce you to Brandy Yeack

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?

Nine years ago, I was working as a nurse’s assistant, surrounded by patients at the end of their lives. While I cherished the opportunity to help and connect with people, the constant goodbyes weighed heavily on me. Desiring a change, I took a leap of faith and sent my resume to every medical office I could find. Valley Eye Care responded, and I was invited for an interview. I was incredibly nervous, as it had been years since my last interview. Despite my initial doubts, I received an offer and accepted the position as a technician, promptly giving notice at my current job.

During this transition, my mother, who was my confidant and best friend, was in a coma at Riverbend. Making this career change felt daunting without her support. However, within a few months, I fell in love with my new role. I was quickly promoted to a lead position and encouraged my best friend to join the team. Three months later, she did.

I progressed to clinic manager, becoming certified along the way. The mentorship of two supportive doctors was instrumental in my growth, leading me to pass my CPOA test and attain my second level of certification with the American Optometric Association. I also started volunteering on their CPC committee.

After six years as clinic manager, I was promoted to practice manager, overseeing a team of 15 people. Concurrently, I achieved my dream of becoming a Vision Source facilitator, eventually overseeing all of Oregon’s six regions and mentoring newer facilitators. In 2023, I was honored with three prestigious awards: Oregon Paraoptometric of the Year, AOA Paraoptometric of the Year, and Vision Source Facilitator of the Year.

I am passionate about making a significant impact in the optometric world. My journey led to an invitation to join the AOA Resource Committee and the OOPA Workforce and Third Party Committee. Now, I am in the final steps of establishing the first paraoptometric association in Oregon, advocating for increased certification and support for all paras in the state.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?

We all like to believe that success is a smooth journey, but more often than not, it is filled with difficulties and numerous barriers. The external barriers were the hardest. I was a single mom of three young children, just lost my mom, and in a trying relationship. Wanting more for myself and my children, I poured everything I had into my career. Babysitters often quit on me with short notice, leaving me scrambling for childcare. Finally, I was blessed to meet a family from my church who stepped in to help me raise my three young ones while I worked. They even took them overnight when I needed to leave for a conference. Honestly, without that family, I don’t think I would have made it. As the years passed, I met my husband, who has become my greatest supporter. That trying relationship I had before, just made me stronger for the trials and tribulations that laid ahead. The doctors I work for have also been incredibly gracious and supportive. Whenever barriers arose (my health with all my surgeries and court dates from those trying relationships) they stood by my side and helped push me forward. Without my two amazing doctors, and my husband, I wouldn’t have made it. The saying “It takes a village” is truly accurate. The external barriers seem so small now, but during those times in my life they were pretty big. Anything is possible if you have the right people in your corner, a positive outlook, and determination to make it.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?

In my professional journey, I specialize in optometry with a particular focus on paraoptometry. I am known for my leadership roles as a clinic manager, practice manager, and Vision Source facilitator. My work has been recognized with several prestigious awards, including Oregon Paraoptometric of the Year, AOA Paraoptometric of the Year, and Vision Source Facilitator of the Year. I am also passionate about certification and mentorship, which has led me to play a significant role in advancing the field.

One of my key strengths is creativity, which I apply in training others in positive and innovative ways. I also specialize in fostering a positive office culture, ensuring that both team dynamics and patient experiences are optimized. Currently, I am working towards establishing the first paraoptometric association in Oregon, aiming to further support and elevate our profession.

I’m most proud of establishing the first paraoptometric association in the state of Oregon. I take great pride in fostering a positive office culture and creatively training others to help them succeed.

What sets me apart is my unique combination of creativity and leadership. I use innovative and positive methods to train others and specialize in creating a supportive and dynamic office environment. My dedication to advancing the optometric field and making a meaningful impact through initiatives like the paraoptometric association truly distinguishes me.

Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?

One surprising aspect that most people might not know about me is that I have a passion for both photography and crafting candles from repurposed wine bottles. My interest in photography stems from my appreciation for visual detail and composition, which enhances my creative expression. I started making candles from wine bottles after seeing them in a store and thinking, ‘I could try this myself,’ and it’s been a rewarding process. Despite my busy schedule with volunteering on optometric committees and frequent travel, I still make time for these hobbies. It’s a testament to my dedication to blending creativity with hands-on projects, and I’m even exploring how to combine these interests, such as photographing my candle creations. It’s a great way to balance my professional commitments with personal passions.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandy22yeack?igsh=MTNrd3ZkZXhjNXZ1aQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brandy.cherry.31?mibextid=LQQJ4d