New Chapter for Rugeley Storyteller After Cataract Surgery

For professional storyteller and singer Jayne Gould, making eye contact is an important part of connecting with an audience. But for years, her varifocal glasses had made it harder to see the people she was performing for.

Now, following cataract surgery at our Uttoxeter Eye Clinic, the 69-year-old from Rugeley is enjoying a new sense of freedom and a clearer view of the things she loves, from performing and playing the piano to walking with her two dogs on Cannock Chase.

From headteacher to storyteller and singer

Jayne retired in 2014 after a career as a Headteacher and in school improvement. Since then, she has developed a second career as a professional storyteller and singer. She performs at National Trust property Sudbury Hall, where she brings historical facts to life by weaving them into original stories and songs.

“Eye contact is an essential part of storytelling, a way of connecting with the audience, drawing them into the story and seeing their reactions as the tale unfolds,” says Jayne.

Although her varifocal glasses helped her see, she realised they were also affecting the way she connected with her audiences.

“When you’re telling a story, you want to be looking clearly at the people you’re speaking to. I hadn’t really realised how much my glasses were getting in the way of that until I didn’t have to wear them anymore.”

Jayne also performs covers and original songs as part of acoustic duo The Canterburys. Her glasses had become particularly frustrating when she needed to read an iPad placed on her music stand while performing.

A routine eye test revealed cataracts

As someone with Type 1 diabetes, Jayne was already accustomed to having regular eye tests. It was during one of these routine checks that she was diagnosed with cataracts and referred to Optegra Eye Clinic Uttoxeter. Jayne was treated by Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon, Mr Fadi Alfaqawi.

“While we offer NHS cataract treatment, Jayne was keen to address both eyes together to ensure a quicker recovery and minimise downtime,” says Mr Alfaqawi.

“She chose to customise her lenses so they could be tailored to the things she most wanted to do without glasses, including reading, playing the piano, performing, and driving. We were able to offer all of these options to her as a private patient here at Optegra Uttoxeter.”

Feeling reassured before cataract surgery

Although Jayne was looking forward to the prospect of relying less on her glasses, she admits she felt nervous about the procedure because she has a tendency towards claustrophobia.

The reassurance she received from the Optegra team helped her feel more comfortable and at ease throughout her treatment.

Her experience also meant she noticed a difference in her vision very soon after surgery.

Seeing the world in a new way

Jayne’s daughter stayed with her overnight following the procedure. Jayne remembers repeatedly pointing out the things she could suddenly see more clearly.

“My daughter stayed with me overnight following the procedure, and I think she got a bit fed up with me repeatedly pointing out things I could suddenly see with greater clarity, like the colours in a painting.”

The experience also made Jayne realise just how much her vision had changed before treatment.

“I realised that everything looked so yellow before.”

She was able to drive again soon afterwards and quickly noticed how much easier everyday activities had become.

“I could drive again really soon afterwards, and it was just incredible not having to reach for my glasses all the time.”

From playing the piano at home to walking on Cannock Chase with her dogs, Alan and Meg, Jayne says activities she enjoys now feel much more straightforward.

“Everyday pleasures are also more straightforward, like playing the piano at home and walking on Cannock Chase with my two dogs, Alan and Meg.”

The freedom to choose any pair of sunglasses

One of the more unexpected benefits for Jayne has been the freedom to buy ordinary sunglasses rather than prescription versions.

“I used to pay around £500 for prescription sunglasses,” she says. “Now I can just buy a pair off the shelf.”

But while the practical benefits have made a difference, Jayne says the biggest change has been the feeling of freedom that comes with no longer needing to rely on glasses.

“But really, it’s the freedom of not having to wear glasses that is incredible. I can just get on with doing all of the things I love.”

Considering cataract surgery?

Jayne’s experience shows how cataracts can affect more than just the clarity of your vision. For people who enjoy working, performing, driving or pursuing hobbies, changes in vision can have an impact on everyday life.

If you have noticed changes in your vision or have been diagnosed with cataracts, speaking to a consultant can help you understand your treatment options and what you can expect from cataract surgery.

At Optegra, our consultants can discuss your individual needs and help you explore the options available to you.