South Norfolk centenarian Annetta Lord become the oldest patient to receive a corneal transplant at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital
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Annetta Lord, a remarkable woman from South Norfolk, has just celebrated a major milestone – her 100th birthday. But what’s even more extraordinary is that she’s just become the oldest patient to receive a corneal transplant at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital (NNUH). Annetta underwent a groundbreaking DMEK procedure, performed by the skilled surgeon Chrishan Gunasekera, when she was 99 years young. This innovative surgery has not only restored her vision but has also given her a new lease on life. As she blew out the candles on her birthday cake, Annetta couldn’t help but feel grateful for this second chance at living life to the fullest.
Annetta’s journey to this point has been nothing short of remarkable. Born and raised in Norfolk, she’s lived a full and active life, always staying engaged with her community and pursuing her passions. However, in recent years, her poor vision had started to hold her back. Despite undergoing cataract surgery in her early 90s, Annetta’s eyesight had continued to deteriorate, making everyday tasks a challenge. That was when she met Chrishan Gunasekera, a pioneering surgeon who specializes in corneal transplants. He introduced her to the DMEK procedure, a revolutionary technique that involves transplanting a single layer of cells from a donor cornea into the patient’s eye. Annetta was hesitant at first, but Gunasekera’s confidence and expertise put her at ease. “I wasn’t worried about the operation because of my age at all,” she recalls. “I had every confidence in the surgeon. He asked if I wanted to see better, I said yes, and he said ‘let’s do it’.”
The DMEK procedure is a marvel of modern medicine. This day-case surgery involves carefully removing a single sheet of cells from a donated cornea and inserting it into the patient’s eye through a small incision. A tiny gas bubble is then used to hold the new corneal cells in place for a few days, allowing them to settle and start working their magic. Because only a single layer of cells is transplanted, DMEK offers exceptional visual outcomes, faster recovery times, and a reduced risk of graft rejection compared to older techniques. Gunasekera, who was the first to perform this surgery in Norfolk, is thrilled with the results. “There was absolutely no reason why Annetta couldn’t have this surgery, and it has vastly improved her quality of life,” he says. “This innovative technique is better for patients because it offers quicker healing and outstanding visual outcomes.” For Annetta, the results have been nothing short of life-changing. She’s now able to read and do puzzles without the need for glasses, something she thought she’d never experience again.
As Annetta celebrates her centennial birthday, she’s received a special gift from the King and Queen – a personalized birthday card. Her daughter, Janet, was initially concerned about her mother’s age and whether she was too old for the surgery. But Gunasekera reassured her that Annetta was an ideal candidate. “I did initially ask the consultant if mum was ‘too old,’ but he assured me she wasn’t,” Janet recalls. “He was absolutely brilliant.” The success of the surgery has brought immense joy to Annetta and her family. “I’m really pleased for mum that it’s been a great success,” Janet says. As for Annetta, she’s just grateful to have her vision back. “My vision is now the best it’s been in a long time,” she beams.
Gunasekera is delighted to see Annetta enjoying her hobbies again, and he’s proud to have played a part in restoring her quality of life. “As far as I’m aware, Annetta is the oldest patient to have this procedure in the country,” he says. “I’m delighted she is now able to enjoy her life again.” The NNUH team is also thrilled with the outcome, and Annetta’s story serves as a testament to the hospital’s commitment to providing innovative and patient-centered care. As Annetta looks to the future, she’s excited to see what the next chapter holds. With her newfound vision, she’s ready to take on the world – or at least, her next puzzle.
Annetta’s story is a shining example of the human spirit’s capacity for resilience and determination. At an age when many people might be slowing down, Annetta is living proof that it’s never too late to seek help, to pursue a better life, and to experience the joy of newfound vision. As she celebrates this milestone birthday, surrounded by loved ones and with a heart full of gratitude, Annetta knows that she’s been given a rare gift – a second chance at living life to the fullest. And as she looks to the future, she’s reminded that with the right medical care, supportive loved ones, and a positive attitude, anything is possible, no matter what your age.
