Boardwalk Optical Boutique has proudly served the Cambridge community for over 40 years, and now it embarks on a new chapter. Under the skilled leadership of the new proprietor, Dr. Sarah Fong, Boardwalk Optical is transforming into a comprehensive eye care centre that goes beyond simply dispensing eyewear. With the retirement of previous owners, Peter and Sherry Hammerl, the boutique’s tradition of high-quality care continues with renewed vigour and expanded services.
The Hammerl’s retirement marks the end of an era, as they have provided over four decades of exceptional optical services in Cambridge. Their dedication and commitment have made Boardwalk Optical a trusted name in the community. In recognition of their hard work, a special ribbon-cutting event was held to celebrate their business leadership in the community and to also welcome the new ownership. The gathering was organized by the Cambridge Business Improvement Area (BIA) and attended by 20-25 members, including Councillor Ross Earnshaw, who extended his gratitude to the Hammerls and welcomed Dr. Fong and her team.
The BIA plays an essential role in fostering economic growth and community engagement in Cambridge. This association, comprising property owners and businesses within a designated area, collaborates with the municipality to finance and implement physical improvements and promotional activities that enrich the local business landscape. Through initiatives like these, the BIA supports vibrant community spaces and thriving local businesses.
Dr. Sarah Fong, the new owner and a full-time optometrist, is excited to introduce a range of comprehensive eye care services to Boardwalk Optical Boutique. The clinic now offers everything from routine eye exams and pediatric eye care to specialized treatments like myopia management and specialty contact lenses for those seeking alternatives to LASIK surgery. With Dr. Fong at the helm, patients can expect the same personalized care that the Hammerls were known for, while also benefiting from expanded, modern optometric services that cater to the entire family.
One of the most common questions people ask is how often they should get their eyes checked. Dr. Fong emphasizes the importance of annual eye exams for all ages. Vision is more than just seeing clearly; a comprehensive eye exam assesses not only the need for corrective lenses but also binocular vision, color vision, depth perception, eye pressure, and the overall health of the eye. The eye is often referred to as the window to overall health because it can reveal early signs of systemic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, and neurological disorders.
Many are unaware that optometrists are equipped to handle eye emergencies, often more efficiently than walk-in clinics or hospital emergency rooms. For conditions like red eyes, foreign bodies, or chemical burns, seeing an optometrist first can save hours of waiting in an ER. Unlike walk-in clinics, optometrists have specialized equipment like slit lamps (microscopes) to properly diagnose and treat eye conditions. This makes them the ideal first point of contact for any eye-related concerns.
For families wondering about coverage, it is helpful to know that certain age groups are covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). Children aged 19 and under are eligible for an annual eye exam at no cost, while seniors aged 65 and over are covered for exams every 18 months (or annually if there are active eye diseases). Patients aged 20 to 64 generally pay out-of-pocket for their eye exams unless specific OHIP-covered conditions are detected during the assessment.
Boardwalk Optical Boutique is now accepting new patients and looks forward to continuing its legacy of outstanding eye care while embracing the latest in optometric services. With Dr. Fong and her expert team, the clinic is poised to continue being Cambridge’s trusted destination for comprehensive eye health.
For more information or to book an appointment, visit Boardwalk Optical Boutique today and experience the new era of eye care excellence.