Stephen Purdy, O.D. grew up in Los Angeles, California, but lived most of his life in the state of Missouri. In 2003, he received a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Missouri – Columbia. Afterward, Dr. Purdy spent two years working as a school teacher in South America where he learned to speak Spanish fluently. Upon returning to the United States, he became interested in eye care and began pursuing a doctorate at the University of Missouri – St. Louis, from which he graduated with honors.
As a student, Dr. Purdy was active in many organizations including working with Volunteers in Optometry Serving Humanity and with the Lions Club, which included a mission trip to Etzatlan, Mexico. He served in the student government and was a teacher’s assistant for several optometric classes.
Dr. Purdy has performed research on binocular vision and was the recipient of several awards and scholarships for academic excellence. He is a member of the International Optometric Honors Society and the American Optometric Association.
Dr. Purdy holds interests in theology and enjoys recreational activities such as tennis, skiing, traveling, spending time with family, and cooking barbeque. Dr. Purdy joined the Southwest Eye Institute in 2011.
“Our family eye doctor prescribed a pair of glasses for me when I was six years old. The blurry world I was living in instantly became clear. I feel privileged to be able to provide the same kind of service to others.”