A pensioner has revealed how her sight was saved thanks to the diligence of staff at a local opticians.

Jean Blake, 73, of Baildon, has spoken about her experience during National Glaucoma Awareness Week, which runs from June 6 to 12.

Mrs Blake was shopping in Guiseley with her husband Frank when he persuaded her to call in to Specsavers to have her glasses fixed.

While waiting for the repairs, store director Amanda Gale spotted an abnormality with one of her pupils and recommended an immediate eye examination. This was carried out by optometrist Samera Younis, who diagnosed Mrs Blake with acute glaucoma.

“I was looking at sunglasses, as I was aware my eyes were becoming more sensitive to the light,” said Mrs Blake.

“Amanda approached me and asked if I wouldn’t mind having an immediate appointment with an optician. I had no idea there was anything seriously wrong.”

Mrs Younis referred her to hospital where she underwent treatment the following day.

Mrs Younis said: “I’m just so glad Amanda spotted the abnormality as Jean was able to have swift treatment, which has resulted in her sight being saved.”

Mrs Blake added: “I was told at the hospital that had I waited even just a day longer I could have lost the sight in my left eye.

“My pupil had dilated so far it had damaged the iris. I received laser treatment to both my eyes and after about six hours was allowed to leave the hospital.”

Glaucoma is the general term used to describe damage to the optic nerve, most commonly caused by increased pressure in the eye when the fluid within the eye, called aqueous humour, is unable to drain away properly.

Some types of glaucoma develop gradually and the sufferer is often unaware of any problem until it is quite severe.

Without a regular eye examination, the sufferer may find it is too late for treatment.

Glaucoma affects an estimated 500,000 people over the age of 40 – yet half of sufferers could be putting their sight at risk as they are unaware of their condition.

Mrs Blakes said: “I’ve always been good about getting my eyes checked, but it goes to show just how important flagging up any abnormalities in between appointments actually is.

“I would really like to thank Amanda and Samera for getting me to the hospital in time to save my sight."

  • Read the full story in Tuesday's T&A