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Hairy Bikers star Dave Myers has opened up about a health condition that could have left him blind after a routine check-up at a high street opticians. The 66-year-old was left shocked after being told he was showing signs of early-onset glaucoma after they ran some scans which took a closer look at the back of his eye.
Speaking exclusively to Express.co.uk, the television personality revealed: “Thankfully, because it was spotted so early on, the optometrist referred me to my GP, and I was prescribed eye drops which I have used ever since and ensures it doesn’t progress any further.”
The BBC television personality was relieved at finding out sooner rather than later, as he could have been left blind if it wasn’t treated. He explained: “I was so relieved and thankful that it had been detected because it meant I could continue my career, doing what I love the most, being able to work alongside my best friend, but, more importantly, being able to see my children’s faces.
“If I hadn’t gone for my regular check-up, I could be completely blind which is a scary thought. As many as half of all people with glaucoma are undiagnosed.”
Dave now has 20:20 vision thanks to regularly visiting his local opticians as well as continuing to use the eyedrops prescribed to him by the professional.
He uses the eye drops every night before he goes to sleep which helps to keep his eye pressure at a stable level and safeguards his eyes from sight loss.
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The presenter has now partnered with Specsavers, industry experts and Labour MP Marsha De Cordova to call for a policy change and the implementation of a National Eye Health Strategy in England.
On why the country should implement this, Dave continued: “Along with Specsavers and MP, Marsha De Cordova, I believe we need a National Eye Health Strategy as it would help alleviate some of this pressure on the NHS.
“By making more efficient use of high street opticians people would spend less time waiting for care.
“It would also ensure everyone has equal access to care as there are some people, such as those experiencing homelessness that are particularly disadvantaged and struggle to access an NHS eye test,” he told Express.co.uk.
Dave has partnered with Specsavers for a call for policy change. To learn more about Specsavers Access to Care Report visit www.specsavers.co.uk/reports/access-to-care-2023
