A FULL-TIME carer from Devon has revealed how free laser eye surgery from Optical Express has helped her regain her independence, confidence and comfort in everyday life.

Scarlett Walker, 27, from Kingsteignton, received the treatment as part of the brand’s Thanks a Million campaign – a pledge to give another £1 million of laser eye treatment to carers, NHS staff and emergency service workers.

Working as a personal assistant for a disabled gentleman, while also caring for her husband at home, Scarlett’s day revolves around helping others, including taking control of housework, personal care, and making sure her clients live full and supported lives.

‘I spend 90 per cent of my time looking after other people,’ Scarlett said. ‘And then when I come home, I do the same for my husband. There’s rarely time to think about yourself – it’s just not really an option’.

But glasses made even the basics of her work more difficult, and at times even dangerous.

‘I was always struggling with the light when moving from outside to inside and battling fogged-up lenses.

‘They’d constantly steam up, especially when helping people in the shower or taking food out of the oven. It might sound small, but it really matters.

‘When you’re trying to help someone and you can’t see properly, it puts you both in a tough spot’.

Scarlett’s eyesight had been declining for over 15 years but with other financial priorities taking precedence, laser eye surgery was always out of reach for her.

‘I’d thought about it, of course, but I could never afford it. There’s always someone else to put first’.

When she spotted Optical Express’ Thanks a Million campaign online, she instantly applied and was amazed to find she’d been accepted for free treatment.

‘The whole process was so easy. I started at the Plymouth clinic and everyone there was absolutely lovely, so friendly and welcoming.

‘They answered every question I had and explained the whole thing really clearly.

‘I had the surgery in Exeter and honestly it was so much quicker than I expected.

‘I was a little bit scared at first but it was completely fine once it got started, I couldn’t feel a thing until afterwards when the medications wore off, I’m already trying to convince my mum to do it too!’

Since the surgery, the difference to Scarlett’s day-to-day life has been immediate.

‘Now, none of that’s a problem. No more foggy glasses, no more awkward moments, I don’t even have to think about it. It’s just brilliant. If you’re thinking about it, go for it, it’s life-changing.”

Scarlett is just one of thousands of people across the UK who’ve benefitted from the Thanks a Million campaign.

First launched in 2017, Optical Express’ initiative aims to recognise the dedication of those who tirelessly care for others, giving them a chance to invest in their own health and wellbeing. To date, over £3 million worth of free laser eye surgery has been donated.

David Moulsdale, Chairman and CEO of Optical Express, said: ‘Scarlett’s story is exactly what Thanks a Million is all about, giving back to the people who spend their lives looking after others.

‘Knowing her treatment has had such a positive impact on her care work, confidence and comfort is deeply moving, and we’re proud to have played a part in making that possible’.

For further information on the Thanks a Million campaign, visit the Optical Express website here:https://www.opticalexpress.co.uk/thanks-a-million