Born and raised in the Federated States of Micronesia, Asinech Hellan-Pangelinan, OD, always wanted to give back to her community. Originally pursuing a career in teaching, she earned an associate degree in health and wellness from the College of Micronesia-FSM. But her path took a significant turn when she decided to explore health care further.
After coming to the U.S. to further her education and earning a biology degree from Grand Canyon University, she chose optometry for its balance of professional fulfillment and family-friendly scheduling. “There were no optometrists in Micronesia,” says Dr. Hellan-Pangelinan. “Optometry offered the work-life balance I wanted, good pay and the chance to help others.”
She enrolled at Nova Southeastern University and graduated in 2011. That same year, National Vision’s Optometry Relations team visited her school. Their approachable, supportive interactions made a lasting impression. “They were humble and friendly,” she recalls. “They said, ‘Just apply,’ and I did.”
Dr. Hellan-Pangelinan began her career with Doctor’s Exchange of Arizona, P.C.as a full-time optometrist, practicing at offices inside America’s Best and Eyeglass World. From her first days shadowing experienced doctors to managing a busy schedule, her practice and the National Vision Doctor of Optometry network provided tools to help her succeed.
EMPOWERED TO SUCCEED
National Vision’s commitment to supporting doctors in the network helped Dr. Hellan-Pangelinan find her footing quickly. After obtaining her Arizona license, she transitioned smoothly into her new role, shadowing seasoned optometrists and gradually taking on patients. “My practice let me tour numerous locations to get the hang of things and gave me time to adjust to the pace of seeing patients,” she says.
The partnership also made balancing career and family possible. With three children, Dr. Hellan-Pangelinan appreciates the flexibility her role provides. “When my kids are sick, I can stay home without worrying,” she says. “The team finds coverage quickly and reminds me that being a mom comes first.”
Beyond daily logistics, National Vision and practice leaders cultivate an environment where doctors thrive. “They listen to us and want our days to be better,” she says. “I have a great relationship with the district manager in my area, and when I reached my 10-year milestone with my practice, National Vision CEO Reade Fahs personally reached out to congratulate me. It shows how much everyone affiliated with the network values doctors and maintain great relationships at all levels,” she says.
RETURNING HOME: GIVING BACK THROUGH VISION CARE
Dr. Hellan-Pangelinan’s connection to Micronesia remains a cornerstone of her life. In 2015, she returned to her homeland to address a critical need: vision care for schoolchildren.
In a place with no access to optometrists, “Missionaries and volunteers typically help older populations with medical issues like glaucoma or cataracts. But the kids are often overlooked,” Dr. Hellan-Pangelinan says.
With the support of National Vision and the FSM government, she obtained resources to make the trip impactful. “National Vision connected me to Restoring Vision. We were able to donate readers and eyeglasses and bring the necessary equipment,” she says. Over two weeks, Dr. Hellan-Pangelinan and her team screened nearly 1,000 children. For those requiring further care, she conducted exams and provided readers. Specialized prescription eyeglasses were donated by Dr. Hellan-Pangelinan’s “unofficial non-profit organization,” EyeCare Micronesia, which she established in 2015.
“The mission of EyeCare Micronesia is to address the eye care needs of Micronesian communities both in the islands and within the U.S.,” Dr. Hellan-Pangelinan says. The most recent outreach event took place in Phoenix, Arizona, in August 2024, where the team was able to serve more than 50 people. “We strive to ensure that these communities have access to essential vision care.”
Dr. Hellan-Pangelinan revisited Micronesia earlier this year, this time with her husband, children and a fellow optometrist in tow. Equipped with portable tools and an array of eyeglasses, the group saw another 600 children. “Kids are so happy to finally see,” she says. “One child, who was -4.5D, cried when she put on her glasses—and I cried with her. Seeing her demeanor change was incredible.”
These trips not only improve children’s vision but also their futures. “Their parents reach out to say they’re happier and doing better in school,” Dr. Hellan-Pangelinan shares. “It weighs on my mind, knowing the impact we can make.”
