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About Our Doctors
Dr. Ashley Garcia
Ashley Garcia, O.D. received her Doctor of Optometry from the University of the Incarnate Word Rosenberg School of Optometry in 2019 and earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology from St. Mary's University in 2015. Dr. Garcia specializes in diabetic and hypertensive retinopathy, glaucoma, macular degeneration, dry eye syndrome, and age-related macular degeneration. Dr. Garcia is also trained in co-management cataract and refractive surgeries and contact lens fittings.
She has always been fascinated by vision and eye health. This fascination, combined with her passion for helping her community, led her to a career in optometry. To Dr. Garcia, interacting and building relationships with her patients, whether it’s their first prescription or trying on contacts for the first time, along with witnessing the moment of clarity they experience, is the best reward.
In her free time, Dr. Garcia enjoys spending time with her family and dogs. She also enjoys reading and crafting.
Dr. David Ramirez
Dr. David Ramirez is a San Antonio native and graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a Bachelor's degree in Biology (Hook 'Em!). He then attended the University of Houston College of Optometry and graduated with a Doctorate of Optometry.
He has training in soft and specialty contact lenses, management of ocular disease, including glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy. Dr Ramirez is a licensed Therapeutic Optometrist certified by the Texas Optometric Board.
In his free time he loves being with his family and pets. He enjoys cooking, playing board games, video games, and reading.
Dr. Kandy Valdovinos
Dr. Kandy Valdovinos is a licensed Therapeutic Optometrist and Optometric Glaucoma Specialist. She received her Bachelor of Science in Neurobiology from The University of Texas at Austin before graduating Magna Cum Laude with her Doctor of Optometry degree from the UIW Rosenberg School of Optometry in San Antonio, TX.
Dr. Valdovinos specializes in dry eye disease, specialty contact lenses, pediatric eye care, and myopia control. She has worked extensively with underserved communities in San Antonio and participated in medical mission trips. She also completed clinical rotations at Lackland Air-force Base and Ginter Eyecare Center in Lubbock, TX. Born in California and raised in the Rio Grande Valley, she is fluent in Spanish and passionate about providing personalized care and bridging language barriers to serve diverse communities.
In her free time, Dr. Valdovinos enjoys traveling, attending concerts, playing guitar, crocheting, and reading. She also loves spending time with her maltipoo, Juliet.
Dr. Stephanie Hernandez
Inspired by a passion for eye health, Dr. Hernandez pursued a bachelor’s degree in Vision Science at the University of the Incarnate Word, followed by a doctorate at UIW’s Rosenberg School of Optometry. A San Antonio local, Dr. Hernandez is dedicated to promoting eye health awareness and education for everyone.
During her academic journey, she actively participated in mission trips and volunteered in underserved communities, gaining invaluable experience and providing essential eye care services. She’s received extensive training through her externships in various aspects of optometry, including primary eye care, contact lenses, and the treatment and management of ocular diseases.
Fluent in Spanish, Dr. Hernandez can effectively communicate with and serve a diverse patient population. Her commitment to her community and her field drives her to continually improve and expand her expertise, ensuring the highest level of care for her patients.
Dr. Crystal Varela
Dr. Crystal Varela is an Optometric Glaucoma Specialist and Therapeutic Optometrist having earned her degree at the University of Incarnate Word Rosenberg School of Optometry.
She then completed a Residency in Ocular Disease and Primary Care at Nova Southeastern University in Florida.
She is well-trained in routine eye examinations, diagnosing / managing ocular diseases, and performing pre and post operative care for refractive or cataract surgeries.
Dr. Varela values dedicating time to listen to the individual needs of each patient and offering personalized care, while also ensuring that patients are fully informed about their ocular health. Leading with kindness and compassion, Dr. Varela is committed to building enduring relationships with his patients.
Fun Facts: Dr. Varela was born and raised in San Antonio, Texas. She is fluent in English and Spanish. On her free time she enjoys traveling, raising her chickens, and eating spicy food.