Dr. Gaia Hess, a native of Greenwood and graduate of Center Grove High School, has joined VisionQuest Eyecare. She will begin taking care of patients beginning August 1.

Dr. Hess earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Indiana University and graduated from the prestigious Indiana University School of Optometry.

"I love connecting with patients. Interacting with people is my favorite part of the job," said Dr, Hess.

She completed her residency in pediatrics and binocular vision at IU School of Optometry, where she gained experience with orthokeratology/soft lenses/atropine for myopia management, strabismus, amblyopia, vision therapy and traumatic brain injury. She learned how to manage and treat different pediatric vision problems, especially myopia management.

"I absolutely love working with kids. I’m well prepared to handle myopia management, vision therapy, strabismus/amblyopia and all aspects of pediatric eye care," she added.

Dr. Hess and her husband have two cats - Nessie and Nutmeg - and have fostered more than 30 kittens and cats from animal shelters.

She loves reading, going for morning runs and watching birds. "One of my favorite things to do (especially during the springtime) is to go birding. A few of my favorites are orioles and cedar waxwings," she said.

Dr. Hess is accepting appointments for new patients.