Meet our optometrists

Our team of experienced optometrists is dedicated to your eye health and vision care across four Edmonton locations.

About our doctors

Dr. Sam Dhaliwal

BSc Visual Science & Doctor of Optometry (Cum Laude), Illinois College of Optometry; Tomb & Key Honor Society; Beta Sigma Kappa Optometric Honor Society

Born and raised in Edmonton, Dr. Dhaliwal graduated with Cum Laude Honors from the Illinois College of Optometry, where he also earned a Bachelor of Science in Visual Science. Recognized for his academic excellence, he was inducted into the prestigious Tomb & Key Honor Society and Beta Sigma Kappa Optometric Honor Society. Dr. Dhaliwal is an accomplished optometrist with extensive experience in ocular disease management, particularly corneal diseases like keratoconus. His deep expertise in scleral lens fitting has allowed him to deliver outstanding visual outcomes for patients with complex corneal conditions. He continuously invests in advanced technology for dry eye treatment and myopia control, including in-office procedures like LipiFlow, IPL, and LLLT. Known for his approachable and compassionate nature, Dr. Dhaliwal takes pride in listening attentively to his patients and offering clear, straightforward explanations. His patients frequently commend him for always putting their best interests first and ensuring they feel comfortable and well-informed.

Ocular disease managementScleral lens fittingOrthokeratologyDry eye managementMyopia control

Dr. Kristen Woynorowski

BSc, University of Alberta; BSc Visual Sciences & Doctor of Optometry (highest honors), Pennsylvania

Dr. Woynorowski earned her Bachelor of Science at the University of Alberta before moving to Pennsylvania to earn a second BSc in Visual Sciences and her Doctor of Optometry with highest honors in 2010. She strives to improve her patients’ quality of life by providing the most comprehensive care possible and regularly stays up-to-date with continuing education. She also serves as Chair of the Competency Committee for the Alberta College of Optometrists. Outside of the office, Dr. Woynorowski enjoys spending time with her husband, her daughter, three dogs, two cats, and her beloved horse Riley. In her free time, she trains and competes in the sport of Dressage.

Comprehensive eye care

Dr. Palak Sandhu

SUNY College of Optometry

Dr. Sandhu completed her education at the State University of New York College of Optometry and has been practicing since 2014. Her involvement in the Alberta Association of Optometrists and the Edmonton Society of Optometrists helps her stay current with advancements in optometry. She actively reviews new diagnostic technology and treatment options, with a particular interest in ocular health and the ability to detect systemic diseases through eye examination. Her interest in ocular health began at a young age when she discovered the complexity of the human eye and its ability to reveal a wide variety of systemic diseases. Prior to becoming a busy mother, Dr. Sandhu spent her time volunteering in her community, including at local temples helping others assimilate into Canada and with Homeless Connect Toronto, providing eye exams for the homeless. Having married her best friend from Optometry school, optometry continues to play a big part in Dr. Sandhu’s life both personally and professionally. In their first year of marriage, the couple rescued a German Shepherd, and they are now proud parents of their toddler son. During her time away from work, she enjoys travelling, watching basketball, and trying new restaurants with her family.

Ocular healthSystemic diseasesDiagnostic technology

Dr. Sonia Heer

Illinois College of Optometry (Summa Cum Laude)

Dr. Heer received her doctorate from the Illinois College of Optometry, graduating Summa Cum Laude. Due to her academic achievements, she was awarded membership to the Tomb and Key Honor Society and Beta Sigma Kappa Honor Society. Her passion for optometry continually drives her to pursue further education to provide the best and most up-to-date care for each patient. She finds that treating any vision impairment can significantly improve the quality of life for an individual. Born and raised in Edmonton, Dr. Heer and her husband are grateful to be surrounded by a big family here in town that keeps the two of them busy all year round. They recently welcomed their first child, who has been the greatest joy of their lives. During her free time, Dr. Heer enjoys exploring the city with her little one, traveling with her family, and experiencing the ever-changing food culture in Edmonton. When she’s not out and about, you’ll find her embracing some quality time at home relaxing, reading, catching up on a good docuseries, or taking on a new DIY project.

Ocular health examinationsVision impairment treatment

Dr. Emily Leung

New England College of Optometry

Dr. Leung has been practicing optometry since graduating from the New England College of Optometry. Her interest in the field started at a young age when she began wearing prescription glasses and would look forward to seeing her own optometrist. Though she was raised in Edmonton, she gained experience through externships in Sarnia, Ontario, community health centers in Boston, and the Hudson Valley VA in New York. She now shares the same passion for optometry with her patients as she works to educate them on the importance of vision care and ocular health. In her free time, Dr. Leung enjoys taking walks along Edmonton’s River Valley, going to spin class, and watching Korean dramas on Netflix.

Vision careOcular health

Dr. Harpal Grewal

Cardiff University (honours, 2014)

Dr. Grewal was raised in Edmonton, where he attended the University of Alberta to study Bachelor of Science. After completing three years, he moved to Cardiff, UK to undertake his Optometry degree, graduating with honours from Cardiff University in 2014. He spent the next three years practicing optometry in England, gaining extensive knowledge in the management of diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and various other ocular pathologies. Dr. Grewal is excited to be back in his hometown of Edmonton. He strives for perfection while providing optimal care for his patients and has a passion for educating them on the importance of ocular health as well as keeping up to date with changing technologies. When not working, Dr. Grewal enjoys travelling, golfing, and spending time with family and friends.

Diabetic retinopathyGlaucomaOcular pathologies

Dr. Jag Dhillon

University of Manitoba; Illinois College of Optometry

Dr. Dhillon received his Bachelor of Science from the University of Manitoba before earning his Doctorate of Optometry at the Illinois College of Optometry in Chicago. While completing his clinical externships, he gained experience in primary care, ocular diseases, and contact lenses. He actively pursues further education on ocular pathology to continue providing the highest quality patient care. Originally from Winnipeg, Manitoba, Dr. Dhillon relocated to Alberta in 2021 to continue practicing optometry in Edmonton. When he’s away from the office, Dr. Dhillon enjoys spending time with his wife, golfing, snowboarding, working out, and travelling.

Primary careOcular diseasesContact lenses

Dr. Jasmine Li

Illinois College of Optometry; Residency in Primary Care

Dr. Li’s passion for eye care began in grade school when she received her first pair of prescription glasses. This experience sparked her interest in optometry, which she pursued by completing her education at the Illinois College of Optometry in Chicago. Her academic excellence earned her membership in both the Tomb and Key Honor Society and the Beta Sigma Kappa International Optometric Honor Society. After completing her residency in Primary Care with a focus on specialty contact lenses, Dr. Li returned to her hometown of Edmonton to practice. She specializes in myopia control and the treatment of corneal conditions using scleral lenses. Dr. Li is committed to staying current with advancements in optometry and regularly participates in continuing education, attending annual conferences and meetings. Outside of the clinic, Dr. Li enjoys a very active lifestyle. She spends her summers playing golf and tennis and her winters skiing. Though she doesn’t have any pets right now, she dreams of one day adopting a Samoyed to join her in her outdoor adventures.

Myopia controlScleral lensesDry eye treatmentPrimary care

Dr. Jessica Lam

Pacific University; Residency at Southern College of Optometry

Dr. Lam began her post-secondary education in her hometown of Calgary before completing her Doctor of Optometry at Pacific University in Portland, Oregon. After graduating in 2017, she completed her residency in corneal disease and specialty contact lenses at the Southern College of Optometry in Memphis, Tennessee. She appreciates the opportunity to meet and interact with unique individuals while practicing optometry, and strives to provide the best patient care from routine eye examinations to specialty treatments using contact lenses. Dr. Lam stays active throughout the year by practicing yoga, hiking, and snowboarding. She enjoys spending her free time with her husband and their wiener dog, Jasper.

Corneal disease

Dr. Laura Chan

BSc Biological Sciences & BSc Nursing, University of Alberta; Doctor of Optometry (honours) & MSc Vision Science, New England College of Optometry; Beta Sigma Kappa Optometric Honor Society

Dr. Chan was raised in Edmonton, where she attended the University of Alberta and completed both a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She then earned her Doctorate with honours at the New England College of Optometry in Boston and a Master of Science in Vision Science. Her academic achievements awarded her a place in the Beta Sigma Kappa Optometric Honor Society. Dr. Chan has been practicing optometry since 2016 and continues to share her passion for eyes and educating patients on their own ocular health. She has a growing focus on dry eye treatment and management, and her nursing background gives her a unique perspective on whole-patient care. Outside of the clinic, Dr. Chan has been involved in humanitarian missions, leading trips through Volunteer Optometric Services to Humanity (VOSH) in 2014 and 2015. During her free time, she enjoys travelling or spending time with her dog, Mickey.

Dry eye treatment

Dr. Allyse Curry

University of Waterloo (Dean’s Honor Roll); MBA, University of Calgary

Dr. Curry completed three years toward an undergraduate science degree before being accepted into the University of Waterloo School of Optometry, graduating in 2012 with Dean’s Honor Roll standing. She later obtained her MBA from the University of Calgary in 2017. She stays updated with continuing education, particularly focusing on technological advancements and innovative practices in eye care. Dr. Curry is a member of the Alberta College of Optometrists and the Alberta Association of Optometrists. She is passionate about developing long-term relationships with patients and tailoring solutions to their eye care needs and lifestyle. She also works as a part-time contact lens instructor for aspiring eye care providers. In her personal life, Dr. Curry enjoys trying out new coffee shops, traveling, baking, and spending time with her fiancé and dog named Ducky.

Tailored eye careContact lens instruction

Dr. Navneet Sandhu

SUNY College of Optometry

Dr. Navneet Sandhu is a dedicated optometrist with over 10 years of experience, specializing in the management of glaucoma, macular degeneration, and other eye diseases. He received his education from the State University of New York College of Optometry (SUNY) and remains committed to providing top-notch care by staying current with the latest advancements in eye care. As an active member of the Edmonton Society of Optometrists, Dr. Sandhu regularly engages with the latest research, technology, and treatments. He is passionate about treating ocular diseases and values building long-term relationships with his patients, ensuring that every individual is treated with respect and receives personalized care. Born and raised in Edmonton, Dr. Sandhu enjoys spending time with his wife Palak, who is also an optometrist, their two young boys, and their dog, Kobe. In his free time, he is a basketball enthusiast — especially when it comes to the LA Lakers — and loves traveling.

Glaucoma managementMacular degenerationOcular diseases

Dr. Francis Wong

University of Waterloo (with honors)

Dr. Wong completed his optometric education with honors at the University of Waterloo. With a passion for continual learning, he actively participates in educational opportunities provided by the Edmonton Society of Optometrists. With 22 years of experience, he brings a depth of knowledge and skill to his practice and is a proud member of both the Alberta Association of Optometrists and the Canadian Association of Optometrists. Originally from Vancouver, British Columbia, Dr. Wong has embraced Edmonton as his home for the past 18 years. He shares his life with his wife of 21 years and their three children. Outside of his professional commitments, Dr. Wong finds joy in staying active through regular exercise and indulges his passion for sports, particularly enjoying rounds of golf and competitive basketball games.

General optometry

Dr. Steve Larsen

Pacific University (with Distinction)

Dr. Larsen graduated with Distinction from Pacific University’s Optometry program, ranking at the top of his class. With over four decades of experience, he is highly specialized in fitting specialty contact lenses, including Orthokeratology (CRT) and myopia control lenses. He stays at the forefront of new developments through continuous education via conferences, online courses, and industry meetings. In addition to his expertise in contact lenses, Dr. Larsen is deeply committed to caring for his senior patients, finding joy in helping those who face the same challenges he experiences himself. He has served as President of the Alberta Association of Optometrists and continues to mentor new optometry graduates. Originally from Northern Utah, Dr. Larsen has made St. Albert, AB his home for the past 44 years. Alongside his wife Kerry, he enjoys being involved in animal rescues and volunteering at the Senior’s Day Program at the Sturgeon Hospital. Together, they have five children, five grandchildren, and their beloved dog, Jaxon. Outside of work, he enjoys golf, tennis, baseball, fantasy football, and is an avid reader and lifelong learner.

Specialty contact lensesOrthokeratologyMyopia control

Dr. Zenah Gheblawi

BSc Psychology, University of Alberta; Doctor of Optometry, Southern California College of Optometry at Marshall B. Ketchum University

Dr. Gheblawi earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Alberta before pursuing her Doctor of Optometry at the Southern California College of Optometry at Marshall B. Ketchum University. She gained extensive experience through externships at prominent institutions, including the University Eye Center in Los Angeles, Veterans Affairs Hospital in Southern Arizona, Cedars-Sinai Medical Group, and Nvision Eye Center in Newport Beach. Committed to ongoing learning, Dr. Gheblawi participates in continuing education through online courses and conferences. She has worked in Texas, where she learned conversational Spanish to assist with patient care during eye exams. She is a member of the American Optometric Association, California Optometric Association, Alberta Association of Optometrists, and the Canadian Association of Optometrists. Dr. Gheblawi is passionate about giving back to the community, volunteering with the Lion’s Club of California and participating in multiple VOSH California missions providing eye care services in Mexico and underserved areas in Southern California.

Eye care servicesCommunity optometry

Dr. Komal Brar

Concordia University of Edmonton; New England College of Optometry

Dr. Brar is an Edmonton native who completed her Doctor of Optometry at the New England College of Optometry in Boston, after earning her undergraduate degree in biology from Concordia University of Edmonton. She graduated with clinical honors in several externships, including specialties in contact lenses in Silicon Valley and ocular disease at the Veterans Affairs hospital in Massachusetts. As a member of the Alberta College of Optometrists and the Alberta Association of Optometrists, Dr. Brar is dedicated to continuing education, which allows her to provide more accurate diagnoses and effective treatments. Her professional interests include myopia control and ocular disease, and she is passionate about delivering personalized care to every patient. She values building trust with her patients and finds joy in improving their vision and quality of life. Outside of work, Dr. Brar enjoys exploring new restaurants, hiking, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.

Myopia controlOcular diseaseContact lenses

Dr. Kennedy Antoniuk

BSc Vision Science & Doctor of Optometry (with distinction), Pacific University; Beta Sigma Kappa International Optometric Honor Society; GP Lens Institute Gas Permeable Contact Lens Clinical Excellence Award

Dr. Antoniuk was born and raised in Smoky Lake, Alberta, where she split her time between barrel racing and playing volleyball. She attended the University of Alberta before heading to Pacific University in Portland, Oregon, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Vision Science and graduated with distinction from the Doctor of Optometry program. During her time at Pacific, she was inducted into the Beta Sigma Kappa International Optometric Honor Society and held multiple leadership roles, including President of the Pacific Northwest Chapter of the Canadian Association of Optometry Students. She participated in specialty contact lens research and was honoured with the GP Lens Institute Gas Permeable Contact Lens Clinical Excellence Award upon graduation. Clinically, Dr. Antoniuk is committed to providing approachable, research-driven care. She has extensive experience in post-operative management, macular degeneration, glaucoma, and comprehensive primary care for patients of all ages. She prides herself on offering a truly patient-centred experience and making sure every person leaves feeling informed and confident about their ocular health. Outside the clinic, you can find her soaking up the sun with a book on a brewery patio or wandering a farmers market with her spouse and Bernedoodle, Winnifred. In the winter, she’s a little harder to track down — unless you’ve booked an eye exam or happen to enjoy 6 a.m. workout classes.

Post-operative managementMacular degenerationGlaucomaPrimary care

Dr. Kirstin Stayer

BSc Biological Sciences, University of Calgary; BSc Vision Science & Doctor of Optometry (with honors), Pacific University

Dr. Stayer holds a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences from the University of Calgary and graduated with honors from Pacific University College of Optometry, where she also earned a Bachelor of Science in Vision Science. She is a member of the Canadian Association of Optometry and the Alberta Association of Optometrists. With a focus on continued learning in ocular disease and dry eye management, she ensures her patients benefit from advanced care in conditions such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, and dry eye. She finds fulfillment in connecting with her team and patients, relishing the opportunity to educate and empower them to understand their eye health and vision needs. Beyond her practice, Dr. Stayer embraces a vibrant personal life, exploring hobbies like hiking, swimming, cooking, and indulging in the local food scene. She loves spending time with friends and family and has a deep appreciation for Alberta’s beauty.

Ocular diseaseDry eye managementMacular degenerationGlaucoma

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