This Q&A is part of our Faces of Ophthalmology series, where we share insights and stories from our members, recognising their individual contributions to the specialty, celebrating our diverse membership and inspiring future ophthalmologists.
Tell us more about what inspired you to become an ophthalmologist.
My interest in ophthalmology first started as a child. I grew up in Birmingham in the 1970s and shared a room with my beloved grandmother. When I was 11, she had cataract surgery performed by one of the pioneers of implant lenses, John Pearce. I clearly remember her reaction on the way home after surgery, delighting in the bright colours that she could see and the details of cows in fields that she hadn’t been able to see on the way there.
I used to put in my grandmother’s eye drops and could see five perfectly positioned, tiny, radial corneal sutures, which I thought were pretty awesome! I was inspired by the thought of being able to do something positive for people like my grandmother. Then, when I first saw a cataract operation as a medical student, I knew ophthalmology was the specialty I wanted to be part of.
What does a typical day look like for you working at Moorfields Eye Hospital?
One of the things I love about my current job is that I don’t have ‘typical’ days! In my role as NHS England (NHSE) London Clinical Director for Ophthalmology, I have the chance to meet with ophthalmologists, optometrists and commissioners working in different parts of London, all focused on trying to better eye care for people in difficult circumstances.
I like how responsive people are to trying new ways of working, using digital solutions and being part of a multi-disciplinary team. My most predictable days are the days when I do my glaucoma clinic and going into theatre, but even those are not exactly typical because the patients and the international team of fellows that I work with at Moorfields bring such variety.
What does your work as a regional representative on the College’s Council involve?
Like a lot of ophthalmologists, I didn’t really know what the College Council did until I became part of it. It’s a chance to raise concerns of the region’s members, add our voice to the discussion of the challenges ophthalmology is facing, and contribute to some of the solutions. The College has a respected position and can make a difference in some ways that an individual trust and NHSE simply can’t do alone.
What do you find the most rewarding about your work?
I love my job and there are two aspects that I find most rewarding. Firstly, being able to provide excellent care for my patients based on my clinical knowledge and the skills that I have developed during my experience working in ophthalmology for 30 years. In glaucoma, I have the perfect balance between a medical and surgical specialty; I get to know patients over many years, but also perform complex, modern surgery.
The second rewarding aspect comes from my various clinical leadership roles, through which I have the chance to influence and make things better for a wider group of patients, not just those who are under my direct care. This has extended from my glaucoma clinic, through Moorfields and North Central London roles, and has the potential to reach all of London.