In 1998, Dr. Eric Nilsen traveled south from his home in upstate New York in search of warm weather and a friendly community where he could set up his optometry practice. He discovered the greater Richmond area and established Nilsen Eye Care (NEC) in suburban Chesterfield County. Dr. Nilsen graduated from S.U.N.Y. Albany with a Bachelor of Arts in biology and a minor in psychology. He went on to earn his Doctor of Optometry from the New England College of Optometry in Boston. Dr. Nilsen enjoys educating patients about whole health rather than just eye health. He is a huge animal lover, volunteers with Big Brothers Big Sisters and has a passion for performance driving.

Dr. Alexandra Nilsen was born in New York City and grew up in Northern New Jersey. She attended Ramapo College, where she completed a Bachelor of Science in biology with a minor in Spanish. She earned a Doctor of Optometry from Pennsylvania College of Optometry at Salus University in Philadelphia and completed a post-graduate residency at the Hampton Veterans Hospital here in Virginia. In 2000, she joined Nilsen Eye Care. She is well respected for her excellent skills in the diagnosis, management and treatment of eye diseases as well as her compassionate treatment of every patient. In her free time, Dr. Nilsen enjoys reading and participating in her book club. But her favorite activity is spending time at the beach with her husband, Dr. Eric Nilsen, and their two Vizslas, Belle and Duke.

Dr. Nora Gindi is the founder and lead optometrist at Healing Eye Care, where she has built a reputation for her expertise in neuro-optometry and her commitment to providing comprehensive eye care. With over 30 years of experience, Dr. Gindi has dedicated her career to addressing complex eye conditions, offering specialized services including vision therapy, low vision management, and advanced treatment for ocular diseases. Her patient-centered approach and attention to detail have made her a trusted eye care provider in the Clearwater, FL community. She earned her undergraduate degree in chemistry from York College, followed by her Doctor of Optometry from the Illinois College of Optometry. After completing her doctorate, Dr. Gindi pursued postgraduate studies in vision therapy, low vision, and specialty contact lenses. She is a board-certified optometric physician and holds professional affiliations with the Pinellas Optometric Association, the Florida Optometric Association, the American Optometric Association, and the Neuro-Optometric Rehabilitation Association. Dr. Gindi is known for her warm and compassionate personality, which resonates with her patients and colleagues alike. She is deeply committed to patient education, believing informed patients are empowered to make the best decisions for their eye health. Outside of her practice, Dr. Gindi enjoys exercising, playing tennis, and continually expanding her knowledge on medical topics, and spending quality time with her family and friends.

Dr. J. David Aycock has been an Optometrist for over thirty years. He graduated from The Southern College of Optometry in 1994 with his Bachelor's Degree in Science and his Doctorate of Optometry. He has been a part of Aycock Eye Associates, with his father, since 1994. Dr. Aycock and his wife, Courtnay, share two children; daughter Jessica, son-in-law Jordan, grandson Parker and son, Tyler.

Dr. Jodi Vaughn completed her undergraduate studies at Carlow University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and earned her Doctorate of Optometry from the Pennsylvania College of Optometry-now part of Salus/Drexel University in Philadelphia. She then fulfilled a residency in ocular disease at the Baltimore Veterans Medical Center in Maryland. Dr. Vaughn has called the Richmond area home for more than twenty years. She has spent the past few years caring for patients at Nilsen Eye Care and is excited to continue serving both new patients and longtime friends as part of the MyEyeDr family. Outside the office, Dr. Vaughn thoroughly enjoys life each day with her husband, Christian, and daughter, Anna. Don't be surprised if you see her onstage-performing in local musical theater productions.

Dr. Leena Haidar was born and raised in Boston, Massachusetts. She earned her undergraduate degree in Allied Health Sciences with a minor in Spanish from the University of Connecticut, then went on to receive her Doctor of Optometry degree from Illinois College of Optometry. During her training, she developed strong expertise in comprehensive eye exams, ocular disease management, pediatric eye exams, glaucoma and contact lens fitting. Dr. Haidar has a special interest in pediatric eye care and is passionate about making a lasting difference in her patients' lives-providing care for her patients that grows every year. Her clinical experience included a rotation at a VA medical center where she was recognized with clinical honors for her exceptional performance. Also, she completed rotations at a community health institution and a primary eye care clinic. Having transitioned from Optometric Technician to Student Doctor Extern to now Doctor of Optometry-all within MyEyeDr-Dr. Haidar is committed and proud to continue her journey as part of the MyEyeDr team. She is dedicated to providing compassionate, patient-centered care and clear communication to ensure every patient feels comfortable and well cared. Outside of clinic, Dr. Haidar enjoys painting, traveling, talking walks, volunteering and spending time with family and friends.

Undergraduate Education: University of Houston. Optometry School: University of the Incarnate Word Rosenberg School of Optometry. Certifications/Awards: B.S in Biology, Doctor of Optometry, HIPAA, CPR, MiSight. Hobbies/Interests: Sports, Music, and Family.

Dr. Maryam Maleki earned her Bachelor's degree in Biology and minor in philosophy from the University of the Incarnate Word. She went on to complete her Doctor of Optometry degree at the Interamerican University of Puerto Rico School of Optometry, where she also learned to perform comprehensive eye exams in Spanish, allowing her to care for a diverse patient community. She speaks Farsi/Persian fluently. Dr. Maleki is committed to delivering comprehensive and personalized eye care. Outside the office, she enjoys watching great films, listening to classical and jazz music, and baking.

Dr. Julia Evanoff graduated from Cedarville University with a Bachelor's Degree in Biology in 2016. She then earned her Doctor of Optometry degree from The Ohio State University College of Optometry in 2020. Dr. Evanoff's areas of interest include primary care optometry, ocular disease management, and contact lenses.

Undergraduate Education: Florida State University. Optometry School: Nova Southeastern University. Certifications/Awards: Doctorate in Optometry. Hobbies/Interests: Travel, Food, Video games, Fitness, Movies