A 63-year-old Iver resident has described the life-changing impact of her treatment at a Slough clinic, after years of deteriorating vision left her struggling with daily life.
Karen Stoakes was living with dense white cataracts in both eyes, which severely affected her ability to see – even with glasses. Everyday tasks became increasingly difficult, leaving her anxious about navigating her home safely.
‘I got to the point where I was wearing glasses, but I still couldn't see properly,’ Karen recalled. ‘Now, after my treatment at Newmedica Slough, I can see all the way to the bottom of my garden – it's just beautiful.’
Before her surgery at the Waterside Drive clinic, Karen was referred to Newmedica Slough by The Outside Clinic, a home-visits optician service. Her vision had deteriorated to the extent that even simple activities such as moving around her house had become dangerous.
‘You don’t realise just how many trip hazards there are in your own home until you can’t see them,’ she explained. ‘I was constantly worried about falling over the steps in my house and even falling over my little dog Lexi. It’s hard to explain to a dog why you suddenly can’t see – it really impacted my day-to-day life.’
Karen underwent sight-saving cataract surgery at Newmedica Slough, restoring her vision and transforming her quality of life.
‘I love cooking, and now I can actually see what I’m doing in the kitchen again. Suddenly I’m able to cook my older recipes with the family. I still need some help reading cookbooks and will be using reading glasses, but I’m looking forward to getting back into books too.’
Since her procedure, Karen has regained her independence and is overjoyed with the results.
‘Not being able to see properly was incredibly tough, but now my world is clear again. I can’t thank the team enough – what they do is truly priceless.’
Ms Pallavi Tyagi, consultant ophthalmologist at Newmedica who treated Karen, said: “I’m truly honoured to be part of Karen’s journey. When she first arrived at our clinic, she was almost completely blind and relied on her husband for support.
“I was able to perform surgery on both of her eyes within a week, and soon after, she could see her grandchildren for the first time in years. She was amazed at how quickly her life had changed.
“It’s a privilege to see Karen thriving today, and I’m delighted to have played a role in her transformation.”
In addition to Ms Tyagi, the centre is owned and run by consultant ophthalmologists Ms Reena Dave and Mr Richard Lee.
Newmedica Slough provides advanced ophthalmic care for NHS and private patients, helping to restore sight and improve lives.
Among the services at the clinic are YAG laser surgery, cataracts surgery and glaucoma treatments.
To find out more about the services available, visit www.newmedica.co.uk/clinics/slough or call 01753 468440.