Cornea transplant means man can see Christmas properly for first time in years

A retired lecturer from Edinburgh will be able to see Christmas properly for the first time in years after receiving a life-changing corneal transplant.

David Watkins, 72, suffers from a condition called Fuchs Dystrophy but has now received the gift of sight following treatment at the Princess Alexandra Eye Pavilion.

He underwent the transplant in August, and after a few weeks, his eyesight improved to the point where he no longer has to wear dark glasses.

It was made possible thanks to organ donation, with Mr Watkins saying he will be “eternally grateful”.

Fuchs Dystrophy is caused by fluid building up on the cornea and can cause blurred, cloudy vision.

He said: “I visited the optician around 20 years ago, and they saw what looked like birthmarks all over my eyes. I was sent to a specialist and diagnosed with Fuchs Dystrophy.

“It was slow progressing, but three or four years later, I got to the stage where I had to sit in the dark and wear sunglasses all the time because my eyes were so sensitive to light.

“When I got up in the morning, it looked like I was looking through a steamed-up bathroom window.

“I found lights blinding and felt like I spent half my life in the dark.”

Mr Watkins said the difference was “miraculous” in the weeks after the surgery.

He continued: “I can now appreciate being able to see colours again and even dust floating in the air.

“My wife loves Red Kites, and I couldn’t see them with her, but now I get out walking every day and can enjoy seeing the birds.

“The impact on my life is incalculable, made possible by the generosity of an organ donor, and I am and will remain eternally grateful.”

Dr Naing Latt Tint, consultant ophthalmic surgeon at NHS Lothian, said: “It’s fantastic to see how the corneal transplant has dramatically improved David’s quality of life.

“His journey is testament to the transformative impact that organ and tissue donation can have.

“It takes a dedicated team working together to make each transplant operation happen but, above all, it’s the selflessness of donors and their families that makes it all possible.

“Donating a cornea is a truly life-changing gift and can help those affected by failing eyesight continue to live independent and fulfilling lives.”