Vazhappilly, 25, lived in eight cities across three
countries before her family settled in Canada. unique challenges that each of my patients face,”
she says.
Vazhappilly was born in Thrissur, India, and is most
interested in serving the underserved populations. “At this point, my plans for the future are still a
mystery, but I know that it will include mission trips
and practicing in rural or underserved areas. I would
like to return to Calgary or rural Alberta and build my
own practice.” OP
“With an aging population and the recent boom
of myopia, there exists an incredible demand for
primary eye care doctors to diagnose, treat and
manage visual problems.”
Vazhappilly is also an advocate for increasing public
awareness about vision and eye health.
“As an optometry student working at various clinics,
I enjoy the role I play in my patients’ lives by taking
care of their needs and addressing their concerns. The
best part of optometry is the power to change lives in a
profound way through vision care and education.”
Vazhappilly’s scientific passion and strong academic
background also led her to pursue an undergraduate
degree in honours neuroscience at the University of
Calgary.
“My previous personal ocular history and scientific
curiosity led me into brain and eye development
research. The eye, I like to say, is just an extension of
the brain, and I found it fascinating.”
Vazhappilly takes pride in growing to be a kind,
attentive and compassionate clinician.
“I have a passion for people of all ages and from all
backgrounds, and I enjoy learning more about the
Optical Prism | April 2019 33