Corneal Transplant Allows Artist to See Nature's Bright Colors
When Nancy learned that her sister had a hereditary cornealdisease called Fuch’s dystrophy, she asked her eye doctor to check for symptoms of the disease in her own eyes. Nancy learned that she also had the disease, and that in time she would most likely need a corneal transplant like the one her sister had recently received. 

Fuch’s dystrophy affects the inner layer, or endothelial cells, of the cornea and causes clouding and vision distortion. The cornea swells and takes on water, causing pain and severe visual impairment. Fuch’s dystrophy can be treated with topical ointments or drops, but if the disease progresses and interferes with a patient's daily life a corneal transplant is often needed.

The idea of losing vision to a disease like Fuch’s dystrophy frightened Nancy because a large part of her life depends on her visual acuity. Nancy is a professional watercolor artist who relies on her vision to translate what she sees into vibrant and expressive paintings. She also works as a paraeducator teaching art classes to gifted students of all ages.  

In February of 2004, Nancy underwent a corneal transplant to correct her vision that had been severely impaired from the disease. Today, her vision has improved tremendously and will continue to heal as she reaches the one-year mark since her transplant was performed. She is thankful to her donor, their family and to the Heartland Lions Eye Banks for helping to provide her with the “gift of sight.”