Dr Shanine Lafreniere was born and raised in the small community of Mallaig, approximately 170 km northeast of Fort Saskatchewan. She attended the University of Alberta for her undergraduate studies, then completed her Doctor of Optometry degree at the University of Waterloo in 2008, graduating with honours.

Immediately after graduation, she moved to British Columbia where her husband was posted with the RCMP. She began practicing in Delta, BC where she developed a keen interest in ocular disease and pediatrics, as well as a passion for incorporating new technology into the provision of eye care. She was the practice ambassador for the a-b-see program, and visited many preschools in the Surrey-Delta area to educate parents and teachers on the importance of early eye exams in children. She was a member of the British Columbia Association of Optometrists and the College of Optometrists of British Columbia.

A transfer with the RCMP in 2013 finally brought Dr Lafreniere and her family back to Northeastern Alberta, and they are thrilled to be part of Fort Saskatchewan’s vibrant, growing community. In her spare time (which is virtually non-existent as a busy mom of four young children) she enjoys cooking, playing slow pitch, watching curling and baseball, and going camping with her family. She is very proud to be part of the Fort Saskatchewan Eyecare team, and looks forward to serving the community and surrounding areas.