As Maria Kirkpatrick approached college graduation with a biology degree, her path in the healthcare field was still unclear. She had explored various professions, shadowing surgeons, pathologists, and occupational therapists, and even earned a license as a certified nurse assistant. Yet, she wasn’t sure which direction to take. That is, until she returned home to Henderson, Kentucky, and visited her optometrist, Dr. Bobby Cottingham.
During their conversation, Dr. Cottingham spoke of something that resonated deeply with her—building lifelong relationships with patients. “When I talked with him, something just clicked,” Maria explained. “He talked about the importance of relationships and caring for people. Suddenly, it made sense.” His values aligned with what Maria had always considered essential: the relationships you build and the people you care about.
Her older sister, Dr. Amy Kirkpatrick, also an optometrist, encouraged her to pursue this path, describing optometry as both a rewarding career and a great profession. Following this advice, Maria enrolled at Southern College of Optometry in Memphis, where she spent four years honing her skills. Despite a natural affinity for working with children, she completed a one-year residency at a V.A. hospital in Huntington, West Virginia, where she focused on treating older adults with ocular diseases.
“I believe you can’t be over-prepared as a doctor,” Maria said of her time at the V.A. hospital. “It prepared me for the real world and expanded my horizons as a clinician.”
A Journey to Optometry in Central Kentucky
After three and a half years at a full-service clinic in Danville, Kentucky, Dr. Maria Kirkpatrick was ready for the next chapter of her career. Now, she has joined Dr. Rick Graebe FCOVD’s practice in Versailles, where she provides primary care optometry for patients of all ages—from children to seniors. Additionally, she specializes in treating dry eye, a condition that affects millions of people.
What drew Dr. Kirkpatrick to Dr. Graebe’s practice was the alignment of their core values. “This practice is about care, compassion, and integrity, and I was drawn to that,” she said. Dr. Graebe’s approach to patient care is collaborative, always considering the best options available for each individual. “He is very open to doing what is best for the patient. That allows us to be the best practitioners we can be. I love that,” Maria noted.
For Dr. Kirkpatrick, the focus on building relationships with patients mirrored the same values that had guided her from the start of her journey. “I can see myself working here for the rest of my life, building lifelong relationships with patients,” she said, echoing the same sentiment that initially inspired her back in Henderson.
Embracing a Future of Lifelong Relationships
Dr. Maria Kirkpatrick’s story is one of alignment between personal values and professional practice. From her early experiences shadowing healthcare professionals to her decision to join Dr. Rick Graebe’s team, her focus has always been on caring for people and building lasting relationships. Whether treating young children or elderly patients, Dr. Kirkpatrick brings a dedication to excellence and a passion for patient care that will benefit the community for years to come.
If you are in the greater Lexington area or anywhere in Central or Southern Kentucky and are seeking a compassionate optometrist focused on personalized care, schedule an appointment today.
To schedule an appointment at our Versailles or Somerset locations, call us at 859-879-0089.
Credit:
This blog is based on information from Dr. Rick Graebe as compiled and written by John Lynch.