A Note of Gratitude from Our Founder

To the Patients Who Have Made the Last 40 Years So Meaningful,

As we approach the end of 2025, I find myself reflecting with deep gratitude on the blessings of this life — especially the blessing of caring for you and your families. This year marks a special milestone: 40 years since Eye Associates of Winter Park first opened its doors. I am profoundly thankful for the privilege of serving your eyecare needs throughout these decades.

Many of you know that Dr. Kaitlyn Kelley took ownership of the practice in 2022, and that my husband and co-founder, Dr. Gary Barker, retired at the end of 2023. I continue to work in the office one day per week, which has allowed Gary and me to enjoy time with family and travel while still staying connected to the practice we love.

With this limited schedule, I know that some of you have had to see one of the other doctors for your annual exam or an urgent concern. I want you to know that I am confident you received excellent care, and I am grateful for the trust you have placed in our entire team. It brings me comfort knowing you feel well cared for, whether you see me or another provider in our practice.

As I reflect on my years with you, I realize how much I have cherished the privilege of watching you and your families grow: celebrating graduations, new careers, new babies, and new chapters, while also walking with you through losses and challenges. You have truly become a part of my extended family.

For those of you who have already established care with one of the other doctors, I never had the chance to properly say thank you — and in some ways, not saying goodbye has made this transition bittersweet.  

For those who continued your care with me despite my limited availability and have waited months to see me over the last two years, I genuinely appreciate your patience, kindness, support and understanding. As time goes on, I may be away from the office more frequently, and it may become harder to see me on a predictable schedule. I am not retiring just yet, but I am gradually moving into the next phase of my life — and I want to be open with you as this transition naturally unfolds.

Gary and I have built a legacy over the past 40 years that Dr. Kelley, along with Dr. Cashon and Dr. Straughn, is proudly carrying forward. I hope you will continue to trust them as you have trusted us. It has been one of the greatest honors of my life to care for you, and I am deeply thankful for every encounter, every conversation, and every memory that we have shared.

Wishing you all the joys and blessings of the holiday season and a happy 2026!

With heartfelt gratitude,

Sandra Barker, OD