Justin Head, who received a cornea transplant 18 months ago, has described eye donation as "an enormous gift". Mr Head was diagnosed with Fuchs' endothelial corneal dystrophy, a rare condition that can cause blindness, and underwent surgery in Cheltenham using donor corneas.
There are approximately 6,000 people on the waiting list for cornea transplants across the UK, with 50 of these in Gloucestershire. Cornea transplants can restore vision for individuals with partial or total blindness caused by certain conditions.
Iain Dobie, whose wife Alison donated her eyes after her death in 2022, encouraged families to consent to donation. Dr Paul Tomlins, a consultant corneal surgeon, noted that one donor can help multiple people, as two eyes can be used for up to four patients. He added that corneas can be transplanted up to 24 hours after death.