"A Ripping Success"

On Saturday 5th March whilst preparting my vat return I noticed black and white "zig-zags" in my right, extreme peripheral vision. I took a break and thought little more about it.

Next morning however I was seeing thousands of tiny black dots in my right eye.

I visited my G.P. surgery on Monday morning and they referred me to the ophthalmology dept. at Bolton Hospital.

On the Wed morning, 9th March I was seen first by a couple of very pleasant nurses (aren't they all!) who tested my eyesight and applied drops. I was then thoroughly examined by a very efficient specialist who then undertook careful and fully successful laser surgery.

I'd suffered two small rips in my retina in my right eye. The laser cauterises those tears and helps to ensure they do not enlarge - with the risk of a retinal detachment. The specialist was very good at their job and this was confirmed on my follow-up visit by the main consultant.

On this follow-up I had minimal wait time. I was again seen initially by a pair of nurses who put me at ease and checked my sight. A laser scan was undertaken and then a consultation with the main doctor. This consultant is an approachable and very knowledgeable person who explained what had happened. Their advice with respect to my imminent air travel has proven most helpful with dealing with my insurers. I found that by taking an interest in my own health and outcomes the whole team was eager to advise and help. In particular, the ophthalmology photographer was excellent - technically very savvy but very human with it.

I cannot thank the Team enough. A smooth operation from start to end. A pity Bolton Wanderers don't work quite as well as a "team".