Established in
1980
Gravenhurst Optometry, formerly Dr. Paul Monk Optometry, was established in July 1980 promptly after graduation from the University of Waterloo School of Optometry. The initial office was only 800 square feet. After a request from the Bracebridge medical community a second office was opened in 1982 in Bracebridge. Both practices operated under Dr. Paul Monk Optometry until 1996 when the Bracebridge office was sold. Dr. Monk Optometry then resided solely in Gravenhurst. The office moved in 1996 to our current building of 2200 square feet. This building supports multiple exam rooms and a larger frame area. In 2018 Dr. Rachel Nevicato joined the practice and in 2020 she purchased the practice. The new operating name of Gravenhurst Optometry was born.
Dr. Rachel Nevicato
Dr. Nevicato graduated from the University of Waterloo in 2017 and joined Gravenhurst Optometry in February 2018. She practices full scope optometry and has a particular interest in pediatric eye exams. Rachel grew up in Hamilton, Ontario and has truly enjoyed the community feel and outdoor adventures that Muskoka has to offer. Rachel is excited and proud to be the owner of a business with deep roots in the community of Gravenhurst.
Dr. Aisha Lillywhite
Aisha was raised in Okotoks, Alberta. She began her university career in Biomedical Sciences at the University of Calgary before moving to Ontario and completing the Doctor of Optometry program at the University of Waterloo. She graduated with Dean’s Honours in 2022 after completing externships in both Calgary, AB and Fort Frances, ON. Aisha practises full scope optometry and has a particular interest in glaucoma management and dry eye. Outside of the office, Aisha loves fishing, golfing, horseback riding and eating ice cream!
Dr. Andrew Karklins
Dr. Andrew Karklins graduated from the University of Waterloo with his Bachelor of Science degree in Honours Science and Doctor of Optometry degree with Dean’s List Honours in 2023. During his final year of optometry school, Dr. Karklins completed externships in both Dauphin, Manitoba and St. John’s, Newfoundland with a heavy focus in glaucoma care, contact lenses, and refractive surgery management while working alongside optometrists and ophthalmologists.
Originally from Whitby, Ontario, Dr. Karklins is very excited to make Gravenhurst and the surrounding area his new home and is looking forward to getting to volunteer his time and knowledge within the local community. He is an active runner, triathlete, and avid Toronto sports fan!