Meet The Team

Dr. Hayden always knew he wanted to serve in the health field, but he wasn’t sure about the exact career path to explore. After job-shadowing a few professionals during high school, including a local optometrist, he found his calling.

Born in Minnesota, Dr. Hayden grew up in South Bend, Indiana and Grand Blanc, Michigan. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Valparaiso University in Indiana before graduating from the Illinois College of Optometry, then launched his career at a contact lens specialty practice just south of Chicago. Next, Dr. Hayden moved back to Michigan to be closer to family and began working for Dr. Cook in Brighton in 2000.

Around the clinic, Dr. Hayden’s favorite part of his job is getting to make a difference in someone’s life each day. For him, interacting closely with patients to achieve the best outcome is what it’s all about.

“I truly enjoy incorporating the latest technologies, science, equipment, and products to give our patients the highest level of customer service and care,” said Dr. Hayden. “Providing preventative health care options for my patients is something I am passionate about. Being able to diagnose problems earlier and working with them to be proactive in their eye care and overall health needs is not just a part of my job, it’s a priority.”

Dr. Hayden is very active in his community as a member of the Brighton Rotary Club as well as with different clubs, teams and groups within the Brighton community and school system. As the son of a retired pastor who speaks at various churches throughout the local community, Dr. Hayden commits time to supporting and sharing his father’s messages.

When not at work, you can find Dr. Hayden exercising and spending as much time as possible with his family. Along with his wife, Dr. Marla Hayden of Heinsight Eyecare in Milford, they have three children and love spending time creating memories on vacation around the country and being outdoors (especially exploring waterfalls, hiking paths, and national parks).

Growing up, Dr. Visel actually dreamed of becoming a veterinarian. But an appointment with the previous owner of Cook & Hayden Vision Care Center (Dr. Cook), helped her to realize that optometry was what would best allow her to put her science and medicine knowledge towards solving human problems.

Originally from southern Ohio, Dr. Visel spent her final years of high school living in France with her family before heading off to college. She first joined the Cook & Hayden Vision Care Center team in 2002 as a Preliminary Technician during optometry school. After working at Sears Optical and then at a private practice in Ann Arbor for a time, Dr. Visel returned to Cook and Hayden Vision Care Center as an Optometrist.

Her professional specialties and years of experience include primary care optometry, contact lenses, dry eye, and glaucoma.

“Being able to provide a comfortable and professional environment in which our patients can not only be diagnosed accurately, but find real solutions to eye care issues, is something I am very proud of,” says Dr. Visel. “Each time I work with a patient, I strive to help them find answers to their questions and ensure that they are getting the best care – because they deserve it.”
Outside of work, Dr. Visel loves traveling to new places, cooking, and running – including having participated in the Boston Marathon. She shares her life with husband, Don, and their dog, Rufus, who is often there in the office to greet patients.

After a stint in the retail world, Megan made a life-altering career change when she signed on as a Technician at Cook and Hayden Vision Care Center more than five years ago. Now as Office Manager, she is key to keeping Cook & Hayden Vision Care Center’s day-to-day operations running smoothly.

“Nothing beats the feeling of helping a patient who has been struggling with vision issues,” says Megan. “The moment that they put on a new pair of glasses and immediately notice the difference makes my day.”

A native of Brighton, MI, Megan enjoys spending time with her family, watching movies, reading, completing puzzles, bicycling and traveling.

With experience in optometry, ophthalmology and lab work Jamie brings a well-rounded 30-year optical career to VCC. As a matter of fact, if your eyeglasses are being made onsite at the office, they most likely will be made by Jamie.

“I truly love what I do, and it makes my day to help someone see and look their best,” says Jamie.

Originally from Brighton, MI, Jamie has lived in Livingston County his entire life. When he’s not working, he is spending time with his wife, children and two dogs Piper and Masey.

Emma is the friendly face you’ll see at the front desk when you come into the office and the helpful voice you’ll hear when you call. Originally from Tennessee, Emma moved to Michigan with her husband and their two dogs, Molly and Teddy. Emma brings a background in customer service from her experience in the banking world to the front desk as our Front Desk Coordinator.

“I love being a part of a team who cares about each other and about making sure our patients have the best experience possible.”

In her free time, Emma loves paddle boarding, crocheting, and reading.

Holly is a dedicated optical professional with over 20 years of experience in the industry and 23 years in customer service. She holds an MBA from Central Michigan University. She is known for her professionalism, attention to detail, and commitment to quality care. In addition to her full-time role at Cook and Hayden, she successfully runs her own business, demonstrating her entrepreneurial spirit, leadership skills, and passion for growth.

Holly enjoys spending time with her dog, Dior, and loves venturing to new cities in search of fun and unique places to explore.

“My goal is to create an unforgettable experience for every patient I serve. I want each person to feel comfortable, valued, and as though they’re speaking with a lifelong friend. I truly believe the heart of exceptional care lies in meaningful one-on-one connection. Caring for patients is a privilege, and helping them see more clearly allows me to bring a little more light and warmth into the world each day.”

Christina is our friendly optical technician who keep exams running smoothly by performing pretesting and imaging. She enjoys connecting with patients and making them feel comfortable. Before joining the optical field, Christina spent 15 years in the food service industry, where she developed a strong work ethic and a passion for helping people.

“What I enjoy most about my job is how much there is to learn about the eyes. It’s fascinating, and I love being part of the process of helping people when they’re having problems with their vision. I also really enjoy working with my coworkers—the team dynamic here makes it a great place to be.”

Outside of work, Christina enjoys playing video games, listening to music, and going camping whenever possible. She loves spending time and enjoying life’s simple moments together with her husband, their dog Harper, and their cat Luce.

As Cook & Hayden’s go-to specialist for anything insurance or billing related, Cyndi brings more than 20 years of experience in administration and the optical business. Her broad range of skills means she’s an asset behind the scenes with billing and office administration and can occasionally work in the office greeting customers or assisting in exam rooms.

“It sounds crazy, but I love billing! It has always been my favorite,” says Cyndi. “I am very lucky to have the opportunity to do what I love.”

Originally from Brighton, MI, Cyndi enjoys reading, fostering animals for her friend’s rescue and hiking.

As the “official greeter” at Cook & Hayden Vision Care Center, he has a mission to put a smile on the face of everyone who walks through the doors.

Rufus started coming to Cook & Hayden Vision Care Center with his mom, Dr. Visel, as a puppy. His favorite pastimes include eating food, swimming, going out on the boat, and trying to chase rabbits.