Dave Myers of the Hairy Bikers has disclosed that he was left astonished after being diagnosed with glaucoma following a routine appointment at the optician.
The 66-year-old, renowned for his role on the BBC One cookery show, was notified by an optometrist that he was exhibiting signs of the disease, which can lead to vision loss and blindness. Thankfully, Dave’s symptoms were identified early through a scan, and he was prescribed eye drops to prevent the progression of the condition. He has expressed gratitude for receiving treatment before glaucoma could worsen and impact his ability to work and see his family. This update comes a few months after Dave confirmed undergoing chemotherapy for an unspecified cancer.
“I was so relieved and thankful that it had been detected because it meant I could continue my career, doing what I love most, being able to work alongside my best friend, but, more importantly, being able to see my children’s faces,” he told Express.co.uk. Dave also emphasized the importance of regular check-ups, revealing the “scary thought” that he “could be completely blind” if he hadn’t attended the appointment. “As many as half of all people with glaucoma are undiagnosed,” he added.
Dave is now a regular at Specsavers and swears by his prescribed eye drops for helping keep his eye pressure stable and protecting him from sight loss. He has also joined forces with the British multinational optical retail chain, industry experts, and Labour MP Marsha De Cordova to advocate for policy change and the implementation of a National Eye Health Strategy in England.