About Dr. Richard Saari
Dr. Richard Saari graduated with his Doctor of Optometry degree from the Pennsylvania College of Optometry in 2003. He returned to join the family practice in Welland. He became an advocate for maintaining the highest professional standards by joining the Quality Assurance Committee of the College of Optometrists of Ontario in 2003, a role which he still enjoys today. He is a member of the Ontario Association of Optometrists (OAO) Eye See… Eye Learn program which directs the province-wide program focused on ELKP children and visual success.
He was a member of the 2021 Twitter Brigade that fought for social awareness concerning the severe underfunding of optometry services in Ontario. He embarked on a personal mission to educate the community about maintaining good eye health through professional articles in the Welland Tribune, holding education sessions at local libraries, speaking at OAO meetings and being a community partner to many elementary schools in Niagara.
In 2012 he expanded his horizons by establishing his own clinic with the sole mission of “Saving Vision Through Education.” He took on the role of Eye See… Eye Learn Lead for the Niagara Region visiting hundreds of classrooms and taking the message of good eye health directly to ELKP children and their parents. He was awarded the 2014 Ontario Association of Optometrists Public Education Award at the annual OAO Symposium which was held in Niagara Falls that year.
He balances his professional life with an amazing family. He and his wife, Carolyn, are proud parents of 4 children. He is an active member of his church community and when he can fit it in he loves golfing, skiing and spending time poolside with family.
Our Team
Our friendly staff assist with appointments, eyewear fittings, contact lens training, and insurance billing
– ensuring a smooth experience for every patient.
Martine
Receptionist
Martine joined the team in 2017 coming from General Motors. Her extensive experience in customer service and administration made for a perfect match with our growing office. She is motivated and determined to ensure that every patient enjoys their experience in the office and leaves knowing that we are here to ensure your optimal vision needs are met.
Amelia
Receptionist
Amelia joined the team in 2025 following the retirement of Dr. Ralph Saari.
Mark
Receptionist
Mark joined the team in 2025 coming from MedPlus.
Joy
Optometric Assistant / Registered Nurse
Joy joined the team in 2024 from another optical company.
Sharon
Certified Canadian Optometric Assistant (2023)
Shraon joined the team in 2022 from The Hospital for Sick Children.
Mya
Certified Canadian Optometric Assistant (2025)
Mya has always been a part of the team and is now part-time in the office during breaks from her studies at the University of Waterloo where she is obtaining her BSc in Biomedical Science.
Aliyah
Part-time Receptionist
Aliyah has always been a part of the team but more regularly in office since 2024. She is currently working part-time as she prepares for her university career at Western, McMaster or Brock.
Michaela
Optical Coordinator
Michaela joined the team in 2012 coming from a very busy chiropractic clinic. Her attention to detail has allowed her to become very well versed in many aspects of the office and is now focused on maintaining our optical. She regularly meets with frame supplies to ensure we have a great cross-section of frames to suit all patient needs and budgets.
Saving Vision Through Education
It is our mission to keep you educated about your eye health and give you the best options to see your best and protect your sight. We embrace it by taking the time to get to know your eye care history, overall health and combine the education of our staff and appropriate technologies. Our comprehensive honest approach to eye care ensures that you get the best possible care, advice and options for your visual needs.
Please visit our Facebook page or The Eye Health Library for more education materials on eye-related conditions.