Angela’s Moorfields journey

13 February 2024

Angela Gallagher was diagnosed with a detached retina at Moorfields after experiencing ‘floaters’. After having sight-saving surgery, she hopes her story creates awareness, encourages others to have regular eye checks and to trust their instincts!

First symptoms and diagnosis

Angela first started experiencing eye issues when she attempted to swat a fly.

Shortly after she realised there wasn’t a fly in her kitchen, and they were ‘floaters’.

Over time the ‘floaters’ became more regular and Angela started to experience flashes too.

I knew then that there was something seriously wrong with my left eye. I just knew. Always trust your instincts!

Angela

What are flashes and floaters?

Learn more

Floaters are shapes or shadows that people can see drifting across their vision. The exact form and source of these floaters vary – they may appear as small dots or irregularly shaped strands. Floaters are generally harmless and can become less noticeable over time, however in some cases they can be an indication of serious eye conditions especially when they are associated with flashes of light.

“Nobody knows your body like you! This photo was taken while I was experiencing symptoms and shows that you never know what is going on with your eye health.” - Angela

Angela sought help at Moorfields Eye Hospital where she was diagnosed with a detached retina and told she would need a vitrectomy to save her sight.

What is a detached retina?

Learn more

Retinal detachment occurs when the delicate layer of nerves at the back of your eye (the retina) begins to pull away from the blood vessels that supply it with oxygen. A detached retina usually requires emergency surgery, as it can potentially lead to a permanent loss of vision if left untreated for a period of time.

The retina is many layers of interconnected nerve cells that lines the inside of the eye. It is sensitive to light (like the film in a camera) and you need it to be able to see properly.

Retinas detach because they have one or more tears or holes in them. These breaks in the retina allow fluid to pass underneath them. This fluid causes the retina to become separated from the supporting and nourishing tissues underneath it. Small blood vessels might also be bleeding into the vitreous humour (the jelly-like substance that fills the eye), which might cause further clouding of the vision. Without treatment, retinal detachment can often lead to blindness in the affected eye.

Living with and treating a detached retina

Angela shared that having a detached retina affected her everyday life.

It made her feel anxious doing various activities, such as crossing the road, and uneasy in busy places.

This was Angela’s first-ever procedure, and the nurse held her hand throughout, providing comfort and reassurance.

I cannot praise the staff at Moorfields Eye Hospital enough and I will be forever grateful to my consultant. I received such amazing care at Moorfields and I intend to fundraise for them once I am better.

Angela

Thanks to the treatment at Moorfields, the sight in Angela’s left eye will gradually return over time.

Finding comfort and support

Angela’s advice to anyone diagnosed with a detached retina is to talk about how they feel, know things will get better, have plenty of rest and be kind to yourself.

Angela is grateful for the care she received from Moorfields and hopes her story will encourage others to have their eyes checked.

Angela expressed that she holds Moorfields Eye Charity in high regard, admiring and respecting our invaluable work. We wholeheartedly support her cause encouraging regular check-ups - it could save your sight!