Doctors & Staff
Meet the experienced and friendly doctors and staff who make Southern Eye Care Associates the leading provider of vision care products and services in Valrico.
Mona Kardani, O.D., FAAO
Dr. Mona Kardani is a Tampa native and a graduate of the International Baccalaureate program at King High School. She went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Zoology, graduating cum laude from the University of Florida. She then received her Doctor of Optometry degree from Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, where she was inducted into the Beta Sigma Kappa Optometric Honor Society.
Dr. Kardani further honed her clinical skills through externships at MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa and the Malcom Randall VA Medical Center in Gainesville, Florida. She completed a residency in Primary Care Optometry at the W.G. Bill Hefner VA Medical Center in Salisbury, North Carolina, where she received advanced training in the diagnosis and management of ocular diseases including glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, hypertensive retinopathy, and macular degeneration. She has also advanced her professional development by earning Fellowship in the American Academy of Optometry.
Outside of optometry, Dr. Kardani enjoys experimenting with chocolate in the kitchen, playing the piano, cheering on the Tampa Bay Lightning since 1995, and gaming with her two energetic boys. She feels deeply grateful to serve and give back to the community where she was raised.
Dr. Branning Hollis, O.D.
Dr. Branning Hollis, a native of Columbus, Georgia, earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Columbus State University. He went on to receive his Doctor of Optometry degree from Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where he was inducted into the Beta Sigma Kappa Optometric Honor Society for academic excellence.
During his clinical training, Dr. Hollis completed an externship at Clayton Eye Center in Morrow, Georgia. There, he gained extensive experience in the diagnosis and management of ocular diseases and worked closely with cataract patients throughout their pre- and post-operative care. Following his graduation, he joined a private ophthalmology practice where he co-managed patients undergoing refractive surgeries, including LASIK, LASEK, PRK, and CK, as well as post-surgical complications. He also developed expertise in fitting specialty contact lenses for complex visual needs.
Dr. Hollis is an active member of the American Optometric Association, the Florida Optometric Association, and the Hillsborough Society of Optometrists.
Outside of the office, Dr. Hollis enjoys spending time in his garden, playing pinball, exploring astrophotography, and experimenting with 3D printing.
Dr. Sheree Wright
Dr. Sheree Wright is a residency-trained optometrist who has been delivering compassionate, comprehensive eye care to patients of all ages in Florida for over a decade. She specializes in family eye care and has a particular passion for working with children.
Originally from California, Dr. Wright earned her undergraduate degree in Biology from the University of California, Riverside. She then received her Doctor of Optometry degree from Midwestern University’s Arizona College of Optometry, where she was inducted into the Beta Sigma Kappa Optometric Honor Society for academic excellence. Following graduation, she completed a residency in pediatrics, vision therapy, and rehabilitation at the State University of New York, College of Optometry.
When not seeing patients, Dr. Wright enjoys reading, staying active, and spending quality time with her husband and children.
Cathy Darling
Cathy Darling has been a proud resident of the Brandon community for over 55 years and is a graduate of Brandon High School. She earned her certification in Opticianry from Hillsborough Community College in 1986 and has worked as a licensed optician in the Brandon area for the past 39 years.
Since joining Southern Eye Care in 2013, Cathy has been a valued member of the team, known for her dedication to helping patients both look and see their best. Her long-standing commitment to the community and passion for eye care make her a trusted and familiar face to generations of local families.
Leana Carabllo
Leana Carabllo has been a valued member of our team since 2018. She began her career in 1999 as an ophthalmic technician in Astoria, NY, and brings over 25 years of experience to Southern Eye Care. Throughout her career, she has worn many hats, gaining extensive knowledge of the optical industry and earning her ABO certification.
As our office manager and optical sales associate, Leana assists patients in selecting the right lenses and frames for their unique needs and oversees the fabrication of eyeglasses. She is passionate about building lasting relationships with our patients and takes pride in delivering personalized, attentive service.
Outside of work, Leana loves tending to her houseplants, traveling, and tailgating at Tampa Bay Buccaneers games.
Lisa Marie
Lisa Marie, a native of New Jersey, serves as our Optometric Receptionist and is dedicated to creating a smooth, stress-free experience for every patient—from scheduling your appointment to welcoming you at check-in and assisting you at check-out. With years of experience in appointment coordination, insurance processing, billing, and managing patient records, she plays a vital role in helping the practice run efficiently and effectively.
Always ready to lend a hand wherever needed, Lisa Marie takes pride in being a reliable and supportive part of the team. She brings a strong work ethic and a warm personality to everything she does.
Outside of the office, Lisa Marie is an avid animal lover. She cherishes time spent caring for her blind fur baby, Maya, and her adopted Chihuahua, Lily.