Dr. Doran Espe grew up on a farm in central Iowa near Radcliffe.

In 1978, he was awarded the Doctor of Optometry degree from Southern California College of Optometry in Fullerton, California, graduating summa cum laude, third in his class of 104 students. He has received the Optometric Recognition Award from the American Optometric Association every year since 1981, the first year it was awarded. This award is given to optometrist who demonstrate their commitment to quality optometric patient care by receiving at least 50 hours of continuing education a year.

Dr. Espe and his family have lived in Independence since opening his practice in 1979. They have been active in the community and civic organizations, sponsoring sports teams for all ages and serving on the board of several civic organizations. In their spare time, they enjoy hiking, music and volunteer work. Dr. Espe currently directs the Jazz Band at the First United Methodist Church in Independence.

Kathy Cook grew up in the small northeast Iowa town of Quasqueton, located on the Wapsipinicon River.

She graduated from East Buchanan High School in 1973. She came to work with Dr. Espe's Advanced Family Eye Care In January of 1995 as a contact lens specialist and doctor's assistant. Since that time, she has participated in the continuing education courses each year, including Iowa Optometric Assistants Association, the North Central States Optometric Conference, and the Heart of America Contact Lens Conference.

Kathy and her husband Tom have lived in the Winthrop/Independence area for the past 27 years. They have 3 grown children and enjoy golfing, boating and spending time with family and friends.

Maria Delagardelle was born and raised in the Fairbank area on a dairy farm.

Maria is a graduate of Hamilton Business College, and she joined the staff of Dr. Doran Espe's Advanced Family Eye Care in 1998 as Insurance/Bookkeeping team leader.

Maria has participated in continuing education with the Iowa Optometric Assistants Association and the North Central States Optometric Conference, and New Horizons computer training site.

Chris Waring is from the local area. She grew up in Littleton and now lives in Jesup with her husband, Mike. They have two sons, Matthew and Brett.

Chris is currently on the Board of Directors for the Opticians Association of Iowa, and has served on the board for the Iowa Optometric Assistants Association.

Lois Pitz grew up in Tripoli. She and her husband Jerry now live in Oelwein. They have four daughters.

Lois joined the staff of Dr. Espe's Advanced Family Eye Care in 2001, bringing with her six years of experience in optometric assisting. Lois is the Front Desk Team Leader and assists in the dispensary.