Why I Work at Rochester Eye and Laser Center

“You Have to Enjoy What you Do!" 

Tari Perry, COA— Certified Ophthalmic Assistant

Rochester Eye and Laser Center

I first came to Rochester Eye and Laser Center as a patient at the suggestion of a good friend of mine who worked there. I was having frustrating problems with my contact lenses. I had dry eyes, and it took a long time to get my contacts in properly, and within a few minutes, I would be uncomfortable and want to take them out. My vision challenges were negatively impacting my fun-loving and active family lifestyle. My husband and I had three young children at the time, and we loved to go snowmobiling, camping, and motorcycle riding. Managing my vision problems made enjoying life very difficult.

My friend kept telling me about LASIK vision correction surgery and had had the procedure herself a few years before. She encouraged me to consider it to solve my dilemma. After a lot of thought and conversation with my husband, I finally scheduled the initial consultation. It was a very thorough exam, involving a number of tests and evaluations to determine if I was a good candidate for LASIK. It turned out I was, and I scheduled the procedure for two days after my initial consultation.

What struck me most from the start was the open, friendly, and caring atmosphere at Rochester Eye and Laser. Like most people, I tend to be a little nervous about medical procedures – and this one involved my precious eyes! But to my surprise, I found I was very comfortable about my decision, and I had no anxiety at all going into it. It was a very smooth process. 

Because of my dry eyes going into LASIK, I had more dryness than usual in the few weeks after the procedure. The staff was so attentive to my concerns, and they patiently listened to and educated me about my healing. Within two weeks, I had the results I wanted – good vision without lenses or glasses. I truly believe the staff was as happy as I was about the result!

Because I had worked in the medical field in the past, I knew that it takes genuine dedication to deliver outstanding patient care. As I completed the series of post-operative check-ups, I found that along with my new vision, I remained deeply impressed with my experience at Rochester Eye and Laser.

A few months later, my friend and I were at a softball game cheering on our husbands’ team, when she casually mentioned that someone had quit that day. My heart leapt at the news. While I wasn’t actively considering a career change, I was in a job that I did not look forward to going each day. The thought of working at Rochester Eye and Laser captured me. “Are you interested in the job?” she asked. I knew right then I wanted to be part of that team.

The day after my interview, I was hired to check in patients, and I was elated to become part of a culture of caring. A few months later, I was recruited to become a LASIK technician, and I jumped at the chance. Now I’m a certified LASIK technician, and I have completed numerous trainings, continuing education courses, and re-certification exams. It is so gratifying to be part of a team that does so much good for people!

Since my first experience here was as a patient, I completely understand their concerns and issues. Elective eye surgery like LASIK, or having other sight conditions, can be anxiety-provoking. Your eyes are different from anyone else’s, and that’s a major consideration. The most important part of what we do is instilling confidence and trust with our patients. I see some patients routinely, month after month. They get to know us, and we get to know them. And that’s a joy.

Dr. Lindahl leads by example. He is always researching new technologies and techniques and participating in continuing education. He follows new developments and studies the long-term impact of treatments before making changes here. He is truly passionate about our practice and giving the best service to our patients

I’ve been at Rochester Eye and Laser for twelve years now, and it has been a life-changing experience. I have no regrets – nor do I miss the stress of my former career. I want to go to work every morning, and I enjoy my teammates and our patients. Each of our 23 employees is caring, intelligent, and knowledgeable.

My friend – the one responsible for getting me in the door – has been here 17 years, and many of our staff have been here more than a decade. That’s a testament to what a special place this is. You have to enjoy what you do every day, and I feel so fortunate that I do!