Cornea Recipient Shares Story During Eye Donation Month
November is Eye Donation Month, dedicated to raising awareness about the life-changing impact of cornea donation and honoring the donors and their families who make the gift of sight possible.
This year, the Eye Bank Association of America highlights the story of Christine Lichti from UC Davis Health as part of its national campaign encouraging cornea donation. Lichti, a 25-year pediatric critical care nurse, received corneal transplants in both eyes due to corneal disease that deeply affected her life and career.
"My main issue was severe light sensitivity that affected my ability to drive safely, especially first thing in the morning or at night," Lichti shared. "Any bright light would cause pain and profuse tearing."
Thanks to her donor, Lichti can now perform daily activities she once found impossible.
"Thanks to my donor, I can now drive to work safely, enjoy a sunny day in the snow or at the lake, and even watch fireworks — all things I couldn't do before."
Lichti’s experience with cornea donation is deeply personal as well.
"As an ICU nurse, I've taken care of patients who became organ donors, and I've cared for those who received transplants. Now, I've been on the other side, as a recipient of this incredible gift."
"To my donor and their family, thank you for your tremendous and selfless gift. I try to live my life to honor your gift to me," Lichti said.
Her story highlights the profound impact of cornea donation on patients' lives and the gratitude they feel toward donors and their families.
Author's summary: Christine Lichti’s journey showcases how cornea donation transforms lives, restoring vision and enabling recipients to embrace everyday moments they once missed.