10 Minutes With Dr. Jill Caporelli

Many children dream of growing up to be doctors, lawyers, teachers, athletes or presidents. But not all, or even many, of them will end up fulfilling those dreams.

Dr. Jill Caporelli is one person who did stick with the career goals she set for herself.

As early as age 8 she wanted to be an eye doctor. And today she is has her own optometry practice in Yuma, Adobe Eyecare Center.

She describes optometry as a passion, but she has several more outside her profession, among them scuba diving and precious gems.

Readers can get acquainted with Dr. Caporelli in this profile in Health Connections.

What is your medical specialization or discipline, and how did you come to choose it?

I graduated in 1986 with my doctorate of Optometry from the New England College of Optometry, Boston. My parents had always emphasized the importance of education, as well as the need to continually challenge myself. As a child growing up in northeastern Pennsylvania, I always knew that I wanted to be an eye doctor. Most of my family had always encouraged me to go into the health care field since I excelled in science and math. I was always intrigued by eyes and vision, so what better choice to set my sights on but optometry!

What brought you to Yuma?

While working as a commissioned officer with the U.S. Public Health Service, my last duty station was Ft. Yuma Indian Hospital. I ended up really enjoying the people of the Yuma area, the cultural diversity and laid-back lifestyle. The area also had a great need for more eye care services, and it was in 1995 that I opened my private practice, Adobe Eyecare Center, PLLC. It has been a success from the start.

What is your favorite way to relax?

My favorite way to relax is to be anywhere near or in the ocean. Scuba diving, in particular, is my favorite way to relax. I find much peace and serenity in the ocean.

What are your favorite foods?

I love Thai cuisine. The coconut curry dishes are my favorite to try to duplicate at home. Thai is such a great blend between Indian and Chinese food.

What is your passion or are your passions?

I put my heart and soul into everything I do. My top passions are practicing optometry, scuba diving and studying up on precious gemstones, diamonds and rubies in particular.

What hobbies do you have?

My hobbies are scuba diving, snow skiing, traveling, photography, gemology and listening to music.

What is your favorite place to be?

My favorite place to be is Los Cabos, Mexico. I like the contrast of the giant saguaro cactus against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez.

What would surprise people the most about you?

That I am a history buff. My undergraduate minor was in history. I enjoy studying the history of different civilizations. I guess that is where my quest for travel comes into play.