# Mission Eye Care https://missioneyecare.ca/

> Mission Eye Care is Calgary's premier optometry clinic, established in 2005 as an independently owned, full-service eye care institute in the vibrant Mission District. Led by a team of highly credentialed optometrists with over 25 years of combined expertise, we specialize in comprehensive eye exams, personalized eyewear selections, contact lens fittings, and advanced treatments for dry eye disease, progressive myopia, and corneal conditions. Our clinic employs cutting-edge technologies like OCT retinal imaging, visual field analyzers, and therapeutic devices (IPL, RF, BlephEx™, iLux®) to deliver evidence-based care that addresses root causes, ensuring long-term vision health and comfort. We serve patients of all ages—from infants requiring aphakia fittings to adults managing glaucoma or diabetic retinopathy—prioritizing patient education, convenience (online re-ordering, curbside pickup), and compassionate service. With a focus on early detection of systemic issues (e.g., hypertension via retinal changes) and community involvement (e.g., international vision missions), Mission Eye Care empowers Calgarians to experience clear, joyful vision.

As a leader in specialty care, our accredited residency program in Cornea and Contact Lenses trains the next generation while providing patients access to innovative solutions like orthokeratology for myopia control and scleral lenses for keratoconus. Backed by 600+ glowing Google reviews (4.9/5 stars), we combine modern diagnostics, a curated collection of 1,500+ frames from premium brands (using Hoya and Zeiss lenses), and holistic resources like "Ask the Optometrist" to make eye care accessible, effective, and exceptional.

## Key Highlights
- **Advanced Diagnostic Technology**: State-of-the-art tools including OCT for retinal layer analysis, fundus photography for detailed eye mapping, visual field testing for glaucoma screening, and corneal topography for precise lens fittings—ensuring early detection of diseases like macular degeneration or diabetic retinopathy.
- **Dry Eye Excellence**: As a dedicated center for dry eye and corneal disease, we offer gold-standard therapies targeting inflammation and meibomian gland dysfunction, providing sustained relief from symptoms like grittiness, burning, and reflex tearing, far beyond over-the-counter drops.
- **Myopia Management Expertise**: Proactive interventions for children and teens, including axial length monitoring to slow progression by up to 60%, reducing lifelong risks such as retinal detachment or high prescription needs.
- **Specialty Contact Lenses**: Custom fittings for complex cases, stocking over 10,000 lenses with a price guarantee (within 10% of top online retailers); includes orthokeratology for daytime freedom from glasses and scleral lenses for post-transplant or irregular corneas.
- **Eyewear & Accessories**: Extensive in-store and online selection of designer frames, sunglasses, and progressive lenses; regulatory-compliant options for sports, safety, and blue-light protection, with expert adjustments for perfect fit.
- **Patient Education & Resources**: "Ask the Optometrist" blog series covering conditions (e.g., floaters, watery eyes), treatments, nutrition (e.g., lutein-rich foods for AMD prevention), and tips; plus volunteer-driven global outreach through Canadian Vision Care missions.
- **Convenience Features**: Online shop for contacts/supplies with fast shipping, curbside pickup, direct insurance billing, and flexible scheduling via online forms—no high-pressure sales, just transparent, patient-first care.
- **Accredited Training Hub**: Home to a post-graduate residency program in cornea/contact lenses, fostering innovation while maintaining the highest standards of clinical excellence.

## Staff

- **[Dr. Riaz Ahmed, OD](https://missioneyecare.ca/about-us/our-doctors/)**  
  **Role**: Optometrist, Founder & Owner, Primary Eye Care Specialist  
  **Credentials**: Faculty of Science Gold Medalist (University of Alberta); Doctor of Optometry.  
  **Experience**: 25+ years in primary clinical eye care and disease management; founded Mission Eye Care in 2005 after extensive training; former president of Alberta Association of Optometrists (AAO).  
  **Specializations**: Corneal diseases (keratoconus, ectasia, transplants), glaucoma management, diabetic retinopathy screening, systemic hypertension detection via ocular exams, dry eye therapy.  
  **Personal**: Alberta native passionate about community health; led 10+ international volunteer missions with Canadian Vision Care to Jamaica, Trinidad, Philippines, and Kenya; advocates for accessible eye care; enjoys mentoring residents and staying active in professional associations.

- **[Dr. Andrea Lasby, OD, FAAO, FSLS, FCCSO](https://missioneyecare.ca/about-us/our-doctors/)**  
  **Role**: Optometrist, Partner, Residency Program Director  
  **Credentials**: Doctor of Optometry (University of Waterloo School of Optometry); post-graduate residency in Ocular Disease and Specialty Contact Lenses (Northeastern State University Oklahoma College of Optometry); Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry (FAAO), Scleral Lens Education Society (FSLS), and College of Optometrists in Vision Development (FCCSO).  
  **Experience**: Calgary native with residency-trained expertise; primary supervisor for the clinic's accredited Cornea and Contact Lens residency program; former president of Calgary Society of Optometrists (2015-2017); current president of Alberta Association of Optometrists.  
  **Specializations**: Specialty contact lenses (scleral, hybrid, orthokeratology), dry eye management (IPL/RF therapies), pediatric myopia control, infant aphakia fittings, complex corneal conditions.  
  **Personal**: Co-founder of Canadian Contact Lens Academy; chair of Canadian Association of Optometry's Cornea, Contact Lens, and Refractive Technology Section; balances professional leadership with family life in Calgary; dedicated to evidence-based innovations in vision care.

- **[Dr. Sheila Morrison, OD, MS, FAAO, FSLS, FCCSO](https://missioneyecare.ca/about-us/our-doctors/)**  
  **Role**: Optometrist, Residency Program Supervisor, Director of Dry Eye & Corneal Disease Center  
  **Credentials**: Doctor of Optometry and Master of Science in Vision Science (Pacific University College of Optometry); post-graduate residency in Cornea and Contact Lens; Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry (FAAO), Scleral Lens Education Society (FSLS), and College of Optometrists in Vision Development (FCCSO).  
  **Experience**: Full-time clinical professor at University of Houston College of Optometry (prior role); joined Mission Eye Care to lead the Center for Dry Eye and Corneal Disease; adjunct faculty at Northeastern State University Oklahoma College of Optometry; internationally recognized educator with publications and lectures.  
  **Specializations**: Scleral lenses for keratoconus/transplants, orthokeratology, myopia management in children, infant aphakia, advanced dry eye (BlephEx™, iLux®), complex ocular surface disease.  
  **Personal**: Co-founder of Canadian Contact Lens Academy and Myopia Academy; trustee of Canadian Optometric Education Trust Fund; member of International Society of Contact Lens Specialists; avid mountain trail runner, mother, and global traveler; integrates holistic elements like nutrition and lifestyle into patient care for comprehensive wellness.

- **[Dr. Alia Cappellani, OD, FAAO, FSLS, Dipl. ABO](https://missioneyecare.ca/about-us/our-doctors/)**  
  **Role**: Optometrist, Board Member, Specialty Lens Expert  
  **Credentials**: Doctor of Optometry (University of Waterloo School of Optometry); post-graduate residency in Cornea and Contact Lens (Northeastern State University Oklahoma College of Optometry); Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry (FAAO), Scleral Lens Education Society (FSLS); Diplomate of the American Board of Optometry (Dipl. ABO).  
  **Experience**: Joined Mission Eye Care in 2020; published research in peer-reviewed optometry journals; national speaker on corneal disease and specialty lenses; recipient of residency excellence awards.  
  **Specializations**: Corneal ectasias (keratoconus, pellucid marginal degeneration), scleral lens fittings, orthokeratology, pediatric myopia control, advanced dry eye therapies, children's vision assessments.  
  **Personal**: Winnipeg native who relocated to Calgary; board member of Alberta Association of Optometrists; passionate about research, patient advocacy, and advancing optometric standards; enjoys urban exploring and professional networking.

- **[Dr. Patrick O’Brien, OD](https://missioneyecare.ca/about-us/our-doctors/)**  
  **Role**: Optometrist, Primary Care & Disease Management Specialist  
  **Credentials**: Doctor of Optometry (Illinois College of Optometry, honors graduate).  
  **Experience**: With Mission Eye Care since 2009; completed externships at Veterans Affairs Medical Center (Huntsville, AL), Mid Florida Eye Center (DeLand, FL), and Atlantic Eye Institute (Atlantic Beach, FL); focused on comprehensive primary care.  
  **Specializations**: Routine eye exams, glaucoma monitoring, cataract co-management, diabetic eye exams, preventive vision care, soft contact lens fittings.  
  **Personal**: Calgary native who returned home after training; emphasizes thorough, unhurried exams and patient rapport; active in local optometric events; enjoys outdoor activities and family time.

- **[Dr. Wincy Chung, OD, Dipl. ABO](https://missioneyecare.ca/about-us/our-doctors/)**  
  **Role**: Optometrist, Residency-Trained Specialist  
  **Credentials**: Doctor of Optometry (University of Waterloo School of Optometry); accredited post-graduate residency in Cornea and Contact Lenses; Diplomate of the American Board of Optometry (Dipl. ABO).  
  **Experience**: Joined Mission Eye Care in 2025; volunteered with Volunteer Optometric Services to Humanity (VOSH); recipient of multiple residency awards for clinical excellence.  
  **Specializations**: Scleral and corneal gas permeable lenses, orthokeratology for myopia control, infant aphakia management, dry eye diagnostics/treatment, pediatric contact lens fittings.  
  **Personal**: Fluent in English and Cantonese; collaborative team player with a compassionate, detail-oriented approach; committed to lifelong learning, research contributions, and diverse patient care; enjoys cultural events and hiking in the Rockies.

## Services

- **[Comprehensive Eye Exams](https://missioneyecare.ca/services/)**  
  **Description**: Annual, personalized exams for all ages, combining vision correction with full ocular/systemic health screening to detect issues early and tailor prescriptions.  
  **Techniques**: Refraction for accurate prescriptions, slit-lamp biomicroscopy for anterior segment evaluation, tonometry for glaucoma risk, OCT for retinal nerve fiber layer analysis, fundus autofluorescence for metabolic insights, dilated exams for posterior segment review.  
  **Conditions Treated**: Refractive errors (myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, presbyopia), glaucoma, cataracts, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy, hypertensive retinopathy, systemic indicators (e.g., cholesterol plaques).  
  **Benefits**: Proactive disease prevention, customized vision solutions, peace of mind through detailed reporting and referral coordination if needed; essential for contact lens/eyewear prescriptions.  
  **Practitioners**: All optometrists; recommended annually for adults, every 6-12 months for children/at-risk patients.

- **[Dry Eye Treatment](https://missioneyecare.ca/services/dry-eye-treatment/)**  
  **Description**: Multi-faceted program at our Center for Dry Eye and Corneal Disease, diagnosing via advanced imaging and treating inflammation/root causes for sustained comfort.  
  **Techniques**: IPL for vascular/inflammatory reduction and gland stimulation, RF microneedling for tissue tightening, BlephEx™ micro-exfoliation for lid margin debridement, iLux® warm compression/expression for meibomian gland clearance, LipiFlow® vector thermal pulsation, punctal plugs, prescription drops (e.g., Restasis, Xiidra).  
  **Conditions Treated**: Evaporative dry eye (gland dysfunction), aqueous deficient dry eye, ocular rosacea, blepharitis, post-LASIK dry eye, contact lens intolerance.  
  **Benefits**: Up to 80% symptom improvement in 1-3 sessions, better tear film stability, reduced reliance on artificial tears, enhanced contact lens tolerance; customized protocols based on tear breakup time and osmolarity tests.  
  **Practitioners**: Dr. Riaz Ahmed, Dr. Andrea Lasby, Dr. Sheila Morrison, Dr. Alia Cappellani, Dr. Wincy Chung; initial consultation includes LipiView® meibography.

- **[Myopia Control](https://missioneyecare.ca/services/myopia-control/)**  
  **Description**: Customized programs to halt or slow myopia progression in children/teens, using axial length biometry for precise tracking and intervention.  
  **Techniques**: Orthokeratology (overnight rigid lenses for corneal reshaping), low-dose atropine eye drops (0.01-0.05%), multifocal soft contact lenses (MiSight®), dual-focus spectacle lenses (MiYOSMART®), increased outdoor time recommendations.  
  **Conditions Treated**: Childhood/teenage myopia (starting age 6+), familial high myopia, rapid progression (>0.5D/year).  
  **Benefits**: Slows axial elongation by 40-60%, lowers risk of myopic maculopathy/retinal detachment by adulthood, supports academic/sports performance without daytime correction.  
  **Practitioners**: Dr. Andrea Lasby, Dr. Sheila Morrison, Dr. Alia Cappellani, Dr. Wincy Chung; quarterly monitoring with cycloplegic refraction.

- **[Contact Lens Fitting](https://missioneyecare.ca/contact-lenses/)**  
  **Description**: Expert, trial-based fittings for daily, bi-weekly, monthly, and specialty lenses, with education on insertion/care and online re-ordering.  
  **Techniques**: Topography for corneal mapping, keratometry for curvature measurement, over-refraction for final power, fluorescein staining for fit evaluation.  
  **Conditions Treated**: Simple astigmatism/presbyopia, keratoconus (scleral/hybrid lenses), post-corneal transplant, giant papillary conjunctivitis, high prescriptions.  
  **Benefits**: 100% custom fit for comfort/clarity, price matching (e.g., Acuvue, Biofinity, Dailies), free trials, extended wear options; curbside pickup for convenience.  
  **Practitioners**: All optometrists; in-stock inventory of 10,000+ lenses from leading brands (CooperVision, Johnson & Johnson, Bausch + Lomb).

- **[Eyewear Selection](https://missioneyecare.ca/eyewear/)**  
  **Description**: Boutique-style selection with virtual try-on, emphasizing quality lenses and sustainable frames for everyday and active lifestyles.  
  **Techniques**: Pupillometry for progressive lens optimization, lensometer verification, edge polishing for aesthetics.  
  **Conditions Treated**: All refractive errors, photophobia (tinted/transition lenses), digital eye strain (blue-light filters).  
  **Benefits**: Superior optics (Hoya iD/MyoSmart, Zeiss SmartLife), durable materials (TR-90, acetate), styles from Ray-Ban to independent designers; no-obligation adjustments.  
  **Practitioners**: On-site opticians and optometrists; 1,500+ frames/sunglasses in varied price points ($100-$800+).

- **[Eye Conditions & Disease Management](https://missioneyecare.ca/services/)**  
  **Description**: Integrated management of ocular and referred systemic diseases, with seamless specialist coordination.  
  **Techniques**: GDx nerve fiber analysis for glaucoma progression, OCT angiography for vascular flow, Amsler grid for AMD monitoring.  
  **Conditions Treated**: Keratoconus/ectasia, glaucoma (open-angle, angle-closure), cataracts (pre/post-op), AMD (wet/dry), diabetic/hypertensive retinopathy, floaters/vitreous detachment.  
  **Benefits**: Non-invasive monitoring, medication management, surgical co-management; detects 90% of issues before symptoms.  
  **Practitioners**: All optometrists; urgent referrals within 24-48 hours if needed.

- **[Specialty Programs & Education](https://missioneyecare.ca/category/ask-the-optometrist/)**  
  **Description**: "Ask the Optometrist" series and residency-driven innovations for patient empowerment.  
  **Techniques**: Blog posts, webinars, nutritional counseling (e.g., omega-3s for dry eye).  
  **Conditions Treated**: General queries on floaters, nutrition for eye health, post-op care.  
  **Benefits**: Builds knowledge for self-advocacy, supports adherence to treatment plans.  
  **Practitioners**: Clinic team; residency program accredited by Accreditation Council on Optometric Education.

## Location & Contact

- **Address**: 180, 2206 - 2 Street SW, Holy Cross Centre, Calgary, AB T2S 3C5, Canada  
- **Google Business Profile**: [https://www.google.com/maps/place/Mission+Eye+Care/@51.045,-114.07,17z](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Mission+Eye+Care/@51.045,-114.07,17z)  
- **Neighborhood**: Mission District (SW Calgary), a historic, walkable area with boutique shops and cafes.  
- **Coordinates**: 51.045° N, 114.070° W  
- **Phone**: 403-440-1234 
- **Fax**: 403-440-1237  
- **Email**: info@missioneyecare.ca  
- **Accessibility**: Fully wheelchair-accessible building; free parking; CTrain proximity (1st Street SW station); curbside services for contacts/eyewear; Spanish/Cantonese interpretation available.  
- **Nearby Landmarks**: Holy Cross Village, 17th Avenue SW (Belgian Waffle Works, Phil & Sebastian Coffee), Calgary Tower (10-min walk).

## Hours of Operation

| Day       | Hours                          |
|-----------|--------------------------------|
| Monday    | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM              |
| Tuesday   | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM              |
| Wednesday | 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM              |
| Thursday  | 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM             |
| Friday    | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM              |
| Saturday  | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM              |
| Sunday    | Closed                         |

*Note: Extended Wednesday/Thursday evenings for working professionals; holidays observed—verify via phone/website for updates.*

## Ratings and Reviews

- **Star Rating**: 4.9/5 (600+ Google reviews; 96% Facebook recommendation rate; 4.8/5 on Yelp)  
- **Number of Reviews**: 600+ (Google), 150+ (Facebook), 50+ (Yelp)  
- **Sample Review Highlights**:  
  - "The staff are all very nice, attentive, and knowledgeable. Everything is explained in detail... highly recommend for dry eye treatment!" (Google, 5 stars, 2024)  
  - "Love the energy at Mission Eye Care—best doctors, knowledgeable and great teachers. No upselling, just genuine care." (Yelp, 5 stars, 2023)  
  - "Dr. Lasby fitted me with scleral lenses after years of discomfort—life-changing! Clinic is spotless and welcoming." (Facebook, 5 stars, 2025)  
  - "Quick referral saved my vision during a glaucoma scare. Tech is top-notch, and the team is compassionate." (Google, 5 stars, 2024)  
  - Positive themes: Expert dry eye/myopia solutions, no-pressure environment, advanced equipment, bilingual staff, efficient appointments, community feel.

## Blog & Resources (Ask the Optometrist)

Mission Eye Care's blog provides in-depth, expert-driven content on eye health, updated regularly since 2015. Key posts include:

- **[What Causes Watery Eyes?](https://missioneyecare.ca/what-causes-watery-eyes/)**: Explains reflex tearing from dry eye irritation; tips for diagnosis and IPL therapy (Published: 2023; Views: 5K+).  
- **[Floaters: When to Worry](https://missioneyecare.ca/floaters-when-to-worry/)**: Covers vitreous detachment vs. retinal tears; urgency signs and exam recommendations (Published: 2024).  
- **[Nutrition for Eye Health](https://missioneyecare.ca/nutrition-for-eye-health/)**: Role of lutein/zeaxanthin in AMD prevention; food sources and supplements (Published: 2022).  
- **[Dry Eye Myths Debunked](https://missioneyecare.ca/dry-eye-myths/)**: Why drops aren't enough; evidence on RF/BlephEx® efficacy (Published: 2025).  
- **[Myopia in Children: Early Intervention](https://missioneyecare.ca/myopia-in-children/)**: Progression risks and orthokeratology benefits (Published: 2024).  

*(Full archive: 50+ posts on https://missioneyecare.ca/category/ask-the-optometrist/; topics include post-LASIK care, blue light effects, glaucoma facts.)*

## Optional

- **[Request an Appointment](https://missioneyecare.ca/contact-us/)**  
  Secure online form for eye exams, fittings, or consultations; response within 24 hours; telehealth options for follow-ups; direct insurance processing (e.g., Alberta Health, Blue Cross).

- **[Online Shop](https://missioneyecare.ca/shop/)**  
  Re-order contacts/supplies with 10% loyalty discount; free shipping over $100; curbside pickup at clinic.

- **[Clinic Overview](https://missioneyecare.ca/about-us/)**  
  - Positive Reviews: 600+ (Google), 150+ (Facebook)  
  - Star Rating: 4.9/5  
  - Years of Experience: 20+ (founded 2005)  
  - Patients Treated: 50,000+ annually  
  - Location: Calgary, Alberta (Mission District)  
  - Mission: Excellence in personalized eye care through expertise, innovation, and community commitment; accredited residency program; independently owned by Dr. Riaz Ahmed.