MT LAWLEY resident John Metcalf is enjoying improved vision after receiving treatment through the Lions Eye Institute.
Mr Metcalf suffered from Fuchs’ Dystrophy and has had two corneal transplants, as well as laser treatment, on one of his eyes.
He said the condition was discovered about eight years ago when his vision problems got to the stage where glasses did not improve his sight and he was referred to an ophthamologist.
His first corneal transplant was carried out about six years ago, with the second transplant a few years ago.
Mr Metcalf said it took time for his eyes to heal properly after each operation, but his eyesight had improved greatly.
“I am very grateful to the Lions Eye Institute. They have been a great organisation to deal with,” he said.
“I hate to think what it would have been like if I didn’t have these two transplants. I would have had deteriorating and faulty eyesight for life.”
In November about 80 patients and members of donor families formally celebrated the anniversary of the Lions Eye Institute .
More than 3400 WA people have received corneal transplants.
Lions Eye Bank Director Steve Wiffen said the number of WA people waiting for a corneal transplant had increased over the past few years.
He said many people did not realise they were more likely to be able to donate eye tissue than any other organ or tissue.