Originally from Fayetteville, Arkansas, Dr. Nicholas A. Donaghey joins the Gillespie Eye Care team as the primary optometrist at the Grand Coulee location. He and his family have relocated from Fayetteville to the area, specifically to fill this position.
In his words, “One of the most exciting aspects of this opportunity is having the chance to work with and become a part of a small, tightly knit community such as the Grand Coulee area.” Developing rich and caring relationships with his patients and those that he works with have always been passions for Dr. Donaghey. He continued, “Grand Coulee reminds me of where I grew up and the sense of community that I felt there.”
Dr. Donaghey’s move to the area signifies the first time Grand Coulee will have a full-time optometrist. Gillespie Eye Care purchased Family Vision Care in August 2013 and has spent the last five months completely renovating the practice, investing heavily in state-of-the-art medical equipment and updating everything from the computer systems down to new flooring, paint and furniture.
Gillespie Eye Care has added an entirely new optical, filled with hundreds of new frames, as well as hired and trained new staff who are skilled and excited to serve the people of Grand Coulee. All of these updates have laid the groundwork for bringing Dr. Donaghey on board.
Dr. Donaghey received his Bachelor’s of Science degree from the University of Arkansas. He then received his Doctor of Optometry from Ohio State University where he served as class representative, in addition to being a four-year member of the International Optometric Honor Society and earning the OSU Low Vision Excellence Award. During this time at Ohio State, Dr. Donaghey had the opportunity to work with veterans from around the Columbus area at the Columbus VA clinic, as well as train under leading ophthalmologists in almost every ophthalmological subspecialty. These experiences, in addition to many others, have allowed him to develop an expertise and passion for practicing full scope optometry in a primary care setting. Dr. Donaghey explained, “The human eye is an amazing thing, and having the opportunity to help individuals achieve their best possible vision at all stages of life is what I love.”
With a deep passion for optometric and medical mission work, Dr. Donaghey has volunteered on medical mission trips to Nicaragua and has assisted in the organization of similar trips to both Bolivia and Guatemala. He is a current member of VOSH International (Volunteer Optometric Services to Humanity) and plans to continue pursuing this passion by continuing to participate in annual mission trips and working with organizations such as the local Lion’s Club.
Dr. Donaghey is married with three young children. He is excited to not only explore the many outdoor opportunities present in Central Washington but also to pass this enthusiasm for the outdoors onto his kids.
Gillespie Eye Care, Grand Coulee, is located at 407 Burdin Blvd. and is open Monday through Thursday, 9am-5pm. Appointments can be made by calling 509-633-0340.
