Golfer’s eye surgery inspires charity event
A charity golf day has raised £3,259 for the Eye Clinic at our hospital where golfer John Cunningham was treated last year after being hit in the eye with a golf ball.
The John Cunningham Golf Day was attended by 36 players at Bungay and Waveney Valley Golf Club on July 25, 15 months after he suffered severe injuries to his eye.
Organiser Peter Shields said: “The day was requested by John to raise money for the eye clinic and Nelson Ward. The surgeons and the team were absolutely brilliant and he is expecting his final operations in September to bring him back to virtually full sight and appearance.”
Consultant Ophthalmologist Chrishan Gunasekera, who performed the emergency operation that saved John’s eye, said: “John’s story is extraordinary. He required emergency surgery at midnight on a Saturday. I am pleased to say we were able to save his eye, and the surgery was successful.
“Since then, he has undergone several further procedures by our vitreoretinal team to help restore his vision. It has been a privilege to support John through his recovery. His decision to turn a difficult experience into a positive legacy is deeply inspiring, raising awareness and funding that will directly benefit many other patients through the work of the hospital charity.”
The money raised will go towards the purchase of a specular microscope which will enhance risk assessments and follow-up for patients undergoing complex cataract, glaucoma or vitreoretinal surgery, particularly those with compromised corneas.
Additionally, the Eye Department plans to invest in digital slit lamps that will enhance care for eye emergencies and on-call services, allowing for high-quality image capture, remote review, and virtual consultations, improving clinical decision-making and efficiency.
Collectively, this equipment supports a shift toward virtual care models, one-stop clinics, and safer, more streamlined surgical planning across the department.
Chrishan said: “It was a truly special event that brought together our ophthalmology team, John, and the wider community in support of the eye department.”