We recently had the chance to connect with Dr. Kerri-Ann Coombs and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Dr. Kerri-Ann , thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Lately, spending time outdoors in nature has been bringing me so much joy and peace. Being able to walk, see the trees, the sky, and the natural earth gives my eyes a break and brings relief to my inner being. It creates a sense of accomplishment and tranquility, reminding me that each day—no matter the weather—there is hope and possibility in the stillness of the sky that always returns.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am Dr. Kerri-Ann Coombs. Growing up on the little island of Jamaica, I witnessed my father’s struggles with vision, and it inspired me to dedicate my life to making a difference in eye health. That journey led me to both nursing and optometry, and ultimately to founding De’Cordova Eyewear, named in honor of my father.
In addition to my work as an eye care professional, I am also the author of a children’s book, A Child with a Big Vision, which shares this story in a way that inspires children while educating both parents and kids about the importance of healthy vision.
At De’Cordova Eyewear, located in Houston, Texas, we provide comprehensive eye exams and eyewear in a unique setting that blends the feel of a café, spa, and bookstore—creating a relaxing space for the whole family. We serve everyone from young learners to retired elders, with the passion of helping each person see clearly and live their best life.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
A part of me that has served its purpose and I am now releasing is perfectionism. For much of my life, perfectionism pushed me forward—it made me work harder, pay attention to detail, and strive for excellence in school, in nursing, in optometry, and in building my business. But I’ve learned that while perfectionism can be a motivator, it can also be a barrier. It kept me from celebrating progress, from taking risks, and at times from simply enjoying the journey.
Now I am embracing growth over perfection. I remind myself that progress, not flawlessness, is what creates impact. This shift has freed me to be more creative, more present, and more open to opportunities. It’s also given me more compassion for myself and for others—because we’re all learning, growing, and evolving. Letting go of perfectionism allows me to focus on excellence with grace, rather than pressure.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
If I could say one kind thing to my younger self, it would be: “Cherish your vision—both the eyesight you’ve been given and the vision within your heart. They will guide you.”
Growing up, I didn’t realize how much my father’s struggles with his eyesight would shape my path. But looking back, I would remind my younger self that every experience—both the joys and the challenges—was planting seeds for the purpose I carry today. Vision isn’t only about seeing clearly with our eyes; it’s also about believing in what we cannot yet see.
I would tell her that her vision would one day inspire her to serve others, to create a business named after her father, and even to write a children’s book that helps families understand the importance of eye health. I would reassure her that even when things feel uncertain, the vision within her will always lead her forward, because clarity comes not just from sight, but from hope, resilience, and faith.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. Is the public version of you the real you?
The real me is actually quite private and not naturally drawn to the spotlight. I value peace, stillness, and the ability to move quietly. However, walking boldly into the vision God has planned for me has required me to step out of my comfort zone. That has meant speaking on stages, writing, and showing up as a public figure—even when it doesn’t come naturally.
While I still appreciate and protect my privacy, I’ve learned that my purpose often calls me into the public space. As a provider in the community, people know who I am and what I do, and I’ve embraced that responsibility with gratitude. The public version of me may appear confident and outward-facing, but it’s grounded in the private me who values authenticity, faith, and service above the spotlight.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What do you think people will most misunderstand about your legacy?
I think what people may most misunderstand about my legacy is that it’s not just about eye exams, eyewear, or even the business itself. My legacy is about vision in a deeper sense—the ability to see possibility, to have clarity in life, and to walk in purpose. Some may only see the professional side of what I do, but the heart of my work has always been about service, education, and creating opportunities for others to thrive.
My legacy isn’t measured in the number of glasses sold or patients seen, but in the lives touched—the child who sees the board clearly for the first time, the elder who regains independence through vision, or the parent who learns how vital eye health is for their family. I want people to understand that my legacy is about transformation through vision, both physically and spiritually, not just about a career in eye care.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://DeCordovaEyewear.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decordovaeyewear/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/de%27cordova-eyewear
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/decordeyewear
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decordovaeyewear/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxEPDI-af1lgiFRR4EcLMQg
Image Credits
Jo Golden Photography
