01/18/2026
I need to address a news story that has shaken a lot of people — including me.
A Kentucky optometrist is being sued after performing a laser procedure incorrectly and blinding a patient. Even more disturbing: she was reportedly allowed to practice without passing any part of the national board exams, thanks to a program created by her father that allowed 21 students to bypass the requirements every other doctor must meet.
Let me say this plainly:
This is not optometry. This is not how our profession works. And this is not who we are.
Every legitimate optometrist you know — myself included — completed years of education, clinical rotations, and national board examinations under the supervision of licensed doctors and faculty. Those standards exist for a reason: to ensure competence and protect patients.
I’m appalled that something like this was allowed to happen, and I understand why people are upset. But please know:
This situation is an extreme outlier, not a reflection of the thousands of ethical, highly trained doctors who care for patients every day.
I stand firmly for accountability, patient safety, and the integrity of my profession.
Hannah Ellis was allowed to substitute an Oklahoma exam in place of her national exams when she sought a Kentucky license