Doctor Drawn to Practice’s Values: A Story of Care and Compassion
April 16, 2026
Doctor Drawn to Practice’s Values: A Story of Care and Compassion
Dr. Maria Kirkpatrick’s journey into optometry began with curiosity and grew into a lifelong commitment to caring for people. Her story highlights how personal values and professional goals can come together to create meaningful patient relationships.
Finding a Calling in Optometry
Before choosing optometry, Dr. Kirkpatrick explored several healthcare roles and searched for the field that matched her passion for people.
Early Exploration in Healthcare
While earning a biology degree, she shadowed surgeons, pathologists, and occupational therapists and even became a certified nurse assistant, yet none of these paths felt quite right.
Inspiration from a Trusted Optometrist
A conversation with her hometown optometrist, Dr. Bobby Cottingham, revealed the importance of building lifelong relationships with patients, a value that immediately resonated with her.
Guidance from Family
Her sister, Dr. Amy Kirkpatrick, encouraged her to pursue optometry, describing it as both rewarding and fulfilling.
Rigorous Education and Residency
Dr. Kirkpatrick attended Southern College of Optometry in Memphis, then completed a one-year residency at a V.A. hospital in Huntington, West Virginia, where she treated older adults with ocular diseases.
A New Chapter in Central Kentucky
After several years in practice, Dr. Kirkpatrick found an opportunity that perfectly aligned with her professional goals and personal values.
Joining Dr. Graebe’s Team
She now provides primary care optometry at our Versailles office, serving patients from children to seniors.
Treating Patients of All Ages
Her experience allows her to care for diverse vision needs, from pediatric eye exams to managing age-related eye conditions.
Special Focus on Dry Eye Management
Dr. Kirkpatrick has a special interest in treating dry eye, a common condition that affects millions of people and can greatly impact comfort and vision.
Shared Values and Patient Relationships
The decision to join our practice was driven by a shared commitment to compassionate, relationship-focused care.
Core Values of Care and Compassion
Dr. Kirkpatrick was drawn to the practice because it prioritizes integrity, empathy, and personalized attention.
Collaborative Approach to Treatment
Working alongside Dr. Graebe allows her to consider every option available and choose the best path for each individual patient.
Vision for Lifelong Relationships
She looks forward to building connections that span decades, helping families maintain healthy vision at every stage of life.
Partnering With You for Healthy Vision
Our team is honored to welcome Dr. Kirkpatrick and excited for the compassionate expertise she brings. We look forward to caring for your eyes and strengthening the relationships that make our community thrive.
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