A 12-YEAR-OLD boy from Neath has undergone crucial eye surgery after a Specsavers optician identified a sight-threatening condition during an eye test.
In March 2023, Carter Evans was booked in for a routine eye test at Specsavers Port Talbot after experiencing headaches. He was seen by Raf Islam, a 25-year-old ophthalmic optician, who quickly identified a huge retinal detachment in Carter’s left eye.
The discovery came as a big shock for Carter’s mum, Louisa Evans.
Mr Islam immediately referred Carter to Singleton Hospital in Swansea for further investigations. He was then referred to Bristol Eye Hospital for emergency surgery, a few days later.
He underwent ‘scleral buckling’ surgery, a type of eye surgery that repairs detached retinas and restores vision. The retina is a layer of cells at the back of the eye. These cells use light to send visual information to the brain. Retinal detachment happens when part of the retina detaches from the rest of the retina and eye.
Since the operation, Carter’s prognosis has been incredibly encouraging. Despite the fact he’ll always experience some weakness in his eye, his vision has improved remarkably, thanks to the sight-saving surgery.
He’s now able to return to activities he loved doing before the surgery, such as football – with the help of some protective goggles.
Mrs Evans said: “I’m just so thankful that we booked Carter in for his eye test when he did. If we had delayed the test by just a week, it may have been too late to successfully repair his eye.
“Raf was phenomenal. So calm, caring and professional throughout. He not only identified a serious health issue, but kept in contact in the days leading up to Carter’s surgery, including on his days off.
“Even post-surgery, he booked Carter in for another eye test to see how the surgery had affected his eyesight. The level of care was outstanding.”
Taryn Beynon, retail director at Specsavers Port Talbot, said: “We’re really pleased we were able to detect the retinal damage early enough and refer Carter to hospital for further investigations.
“This case really does highlight the importance of routine eye tests for all ages. They’re not all about glasses or lenses, but also people’s health and wellbeing.
“It’s vital to have your eyes tested – at least every two years – as wider health problems can be identified, and we can refer you for further medical treatment if necessary.
“Our ethos at Specsavers is about ensuring the safety of our patients and providing the best level of care – so we are proud that Raf was able to identify the issue and help Carter get the treatment he needed.”
