By Marianne Walsh
With over two decades of experience in management and opticianry, Kimberly Harris does not have to dig deep to come up with one of her favorite stories.
“I had a one-year-old patient who needed glasses. Once she tried hers on, she was able to see her mother clearly for the first time in her life. She would not stop hugging her tightly. She did not want to take them off for adjustments. Knowing that we provided a service for a patient so young, and witnessing the impact of sight…it just melted my heart,” Harris said.
As owner of The Eye Bar Optics, 1439 W. 103rd St. Suite 3, Harris opened her business in March 2021 to help improve patient care in underrepresented communities. She describes her husband Carlo as “her biggest cheerleader,” and is the mom of two adult children and one teenager. Harris was quick to expand her family-focused approach with The Eye Bar Optics.
“I feel our model stands out,” she said. “The Eye Bar Optics makes everyone feel like family. No one is turned away because of insurance or lack thereof. Everyone has the same experience in patient eye care health. We educate our patients on eye health and so much more.”
Harris’ business presents an expansive list of products and services. Offerings include comprehensive eye exams, contact lens exams, emergency eye care services, eye condition treatment, frames and lenses (adults and youth), contact lenses, sunglasses, computer vision and frame repair services.
The Eye Bar Optics features two highly regarded and experienced optometrists: Dr. Karina Fulton and Dr. Mike Demers. Dr. Fulton brings over a decade of clinical eye care experience. Her education includes a four-year undergraduate degree from Lake Forest College. She then attended a four-year graduate school program for her Doctor of Optometry degree at the Illinois College of Optometry. Dr. Fulton has an impressive background in handling challenging contact lens fitting. She works to find the most accurate prescription based on occupational vision demands. She also utilizes dilated eye exams to thoroughly examine retina and address dry eye management.
“Patients love how attentive Dr. Fulton is to their needs,” Harris said. “What sets our office apart is the time we commit to each patient. Preliminary testing can last 30-40 minutes, which is not seen as much in the new era of revolving door healthcare. Dr. Fulton also speaks Russian and Spanish, so patients can specify their language preference during appointments and exams.”
Dr. Demers attended Buena Vista University graduating Summa Cum Laude with a degree in biological sciences. He earned his Doctorate of Optometry degree as Valedictory graduate of the Illinois College of Optometry. During his time there, Dr. Demers was the recipient of a record number of awards recognizing his academic and clinic excellence along with his commitment to community service. He has extensive full-scope optometry experience with an emphasis on contact lens services. He is also experienced in treating and managing various external ocular diseases and disorders.
“Patients love Dr. Demers’ bedside manner,” Harris said. “Once again, the attentive nature of our doctors is second-to-none.”
With its impressive staff and passionate owner, it is no wonder The Eye Bar Optics has been a beacon of light in the Beverly/Morgan Park community. Info: eyebaroptics1.com; Facebook: The Eye Bar Optics; 773-647-2709.
