Essex woman praises sight-saving clinic after surgery restores her vision

A 78-year-old Nazeing woman has shared how surgery at Newmedica Welwyn Garden City transformed her life—and why she’s recommending the service to others seeking personalised eye care.

Sandra, who turns 79 in August, went to Newmedica after her Harlow optician diagnosed cataracts in both her eyes. She chose the Welwyn Garden City clinic for its convenience as well as Newmedica’s short waiting times.

‘I’ve been very fortunate,’ she said. ‘Within two to three weeks of being diagnosed, I had my surgery. The very next day, I noticed the difference—my vision was already better. I no longer need glasses for driving or watching TV, only for close-up work.’

Reflecting on her experience, Sandra was impressed by the personalised care she received at Newmedica. ‘I’ve been through this with my husband at another, much bigger facility, and this was just completely different,’ she explained. ‘It felt calm, relaxed, and personal—which really matters when you're having surgery on your eyes.’

The welcoming and supportive environment left a lasting impression. ‘Everyone, from the consultants to the younger staff, was incredibly helpful,’ she added. ‘I felt cared for every step of the way. I’d recommend Newmedica to anyone.’

Sandra’s experience even became a memorable family moment. Her granddaughter was invited to look through the slit lamp—a specialised piece of equipment used to examine cataracts—making it a unique and educational visit for three generations of the family.

Since opening, Newmedica Welwyn Garden City has treated about 150 patients, the majority through the NHS. The clinic specialises in cataracts, glaucoma, and retinal diseases, offering both surgical and laser treatments in a modern, accessible setting.

Mr James Bacon, consultant ophthalmologist at Newmedica Welwyn Garden City, said: ‘Sandra’s story is exactly why we do what we do. Our mission is to offer excellent clinical care with a truly personal approach. We’re proud that patients find us easy to reach and even easier to feel comfortable with—from the facilities to the team.’

He added, ‘We’ve worked hard to make Newmedica Welwyn Garden City accessible to all—offering ground-floor access and lifts for those who need them. Many of us continue to work at the East and North Hertfordshire NHS Trust, so we bring a wealth of experience and collaboration to our work here.’

Newmedica provides high-quality eye care services, including cataract treatment, through the NHS. For further information about Newmedica Welwyn Garden City, visit https://www.newmedica.co.uk/clinics/welwyn-garden-city/ or telephone 01707 524766.