Optical Image: Clear vision and community commitment in Swift Current

SPONSORED CONTENT: For nearly four decades, Optical Image has been a shining example of success and community engagement in Swift Current.  

Since its inception in 1986, by founders Gary and Darrah Wagner, the business has always been forward-thinking and a leader in its industry.  A significant transformation took place in 2007 with the vision and dedication of its current owner and optometrist, Sasha Godenir. 

Godenir played a pivotal role in shaping Optical Image into a full-scope optometry practice that now offers eye exams in a newly expanded location downtown. Under her leadership, it evolved from its original focus on optical products to a comprehensive eye care center. 

Godenir noted that her career with the company began back when she was in high school. 

“I had always wanted to be an optometrist and when I was finishing high school I was lucky enough to get a job with Optical Image in the Wheatland Mall here in Swift Current,” she explained. “I worked with Gary and Darrah and learned some of their great skills, selling, fitting, and making glasses, and loved their excellent way with customers and how they enjoyed making glasses fun and effective for people.”  

Optical Image is a full-scope optometry practice, offering a range of eye care services from routine eye exams to managing complex eye conditions like glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetes-related eye issues.

After completing her education and working in the field for a couple of years, Godenir saw an opportunity to join Optical Image and take it to new heights.  

She approached the founders, and together, they transitioned the business into a full-service optometry practice.  

“We made a great team at the time,” Godenir stated. “Once I purchased the business, we worked together for 5 years and joined forces to turn it into a full-scope practice. When they were in the mall location, it was an optical only, so you couldn't get your eyes checked. When I took over, we added that feature, so it was the two different things coming together to make an even greater thing.” 

Godenir's dedication to helping people improve their vision and eye health is at the core of her work, emphasizing the problem-solving aspect of her profession. 

“There are always things that people are dealing with on a daily basis with their vision or eye comfort that are affecting their lives, and making things easier for anybody, anytime, is always a great thing,” she noted. 

Today, Optical Image offers a range of eye care services, from routine eye exams to managing complex eye conditions like glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetes-related eye issues. Their state-of-the-art equipment and dedicated staff ensure that patients receive top-notch care. They also specialize in fitting contact lenses, including for those with astigmatism or requiring progressive lenses. 

The team at Optical Image works hard to provide the best customer service and a wide variety of unique products to residents in Swift Current.

In addition to their medical services, staff at Optical Image have a passion for eyewear fashion and having fun. Godenir and her team are committed to curating a diverse and stylish selection of glasses and sunglasses by sourcing unique products from around the world to bring the latest trends to the community. 

“We love going to the depths and finding the cool stuff in the world, be it in the European industry or anywhere else and bringing them to our customers in the little city of Swift Current,” she elaborated. “We definitely have a passion for pushing people to their limits with their interest in looking their best and then using technologies and good fittings to help them see their best.” 

Beyond their commitment to eye health and fashion, the Swift Current-based company is deeply involved within the community.  

Godenir's small-town upbringing instilled in her the importance of community support, which she has carried on into her business. 

She actively participates in the Downtown Business Community and serves as the vice president, working with fellow businesses to promote the downtown area. 

Godenir took over the Swift Current business in 2007 and moved Optical Image to downtown Swift Current.

Additionally, Godenir chairs the Southwest Facility Foundation, an organization dedicated to securing grants for community projects like a new aquatic facility and a field house. Her involvement in various community initiatives, including the Drug Action Strategy Committee and The Center demonstrates her commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of Swift Current residents. 

As for the future of Optical Image, she envisions a continued commitment to progress and excellence. Her goal is to remain forward-thinking, provide the best care and eyewear fashion, and uphold the compassionate service that has made Optical Image a beloved fixture in the Swift Current community.