"Sight saving response"

Following a sudden loss of vision (blurred and subjected to black spider like shapes) alongside intermittent flashing lights. I contacted NHS Direct for advice at 1 am Sunday morning, and told them of my symptoms, through which they immediately suspected a detached retina.

An hour later, an appointment had been made at Cheltenham Hospital Opthalmology Department for first thing in the morning.

It transpired I had a retinal tear, which required urgent laser surgery that same day.

A week later I am recovering well from the event, and my sight is returning to normal.

Every single person I came in contact showed the utmost care and consideration for my predicament, and kept me fully informed throughout the whole process.

Both consultants were outstanding, and I remain eternally grateful for their professional knowledge and skill in giving me my sight back. The NHS sometimes receives unfair criticism, but in my case it was gold standard throughout.