Returning to Focus

It’s been quite a while since I posted a blog.

Thankfully, I’ve now had my cataract operation. The procedure went extremely well, and I had the cataract removed and an implant fitted in my right eye. My sight in that eye is now better than it has been in decades, although I have to wear reading glasses (with a prescription just for that eye - the left lens is just a balance lens).

My left eye is a bit more complicated. I originally had a cataract removed from that eye when I was 25. However, I was too young to be fitted with a lens implant, as I would outlive the implant. As I already wore contact lenses, the solution was to continue with that. As my left eye can’t focus, the prescription allows me to read a computer monitor (as I worked as a software developer).

The plan was that later in life I would have an implant fitted to that eye. However, my surgeon did not want to do that, and she suggested they could perform a different procedure for that eye. At my final consultation, we discussed whether to stay with a contact lens or join the waiting list for the operation. The operation can have mixed results, but I went ahead with it. I hope they will perform it in the next year.

In the meantime, my vision is fantastic. I can watch television, read books, use public transport, etc. with no problems.

Those who know me know that I’m a big fan of basketball. At the end of last season, going to watch the Caledonia Gladiators was a struggle. I could only negotiate stairs with help, and I couldn’t see the games very well because I was effectively blind in one eye. Because I couldn’t wear contact lenses prior to the operation, I wore glasses, which didn’t improve my vision as well as contacts.

The new basketball season has now started, and what a difference the operation has made. I honestly think my eyesight is better now than before I had the cataract.

Also, now that things are a bit more normal, I'm concentrating on my health, so I'm back on Zwift and making changes to my diet.

Now that I can see properly, I’m actively looking for work. I last worked two years ago, as a software developer, so I think it’s fair to say I’m a little rusty.

I’m interested in restarting my software development career, so I’m going to do a series of Udemy courses partly to refresh my memory, and partly to learn new skills. I’ve always felt that JavaScript was my chief weakness, so I’ve started Academind’s “JavaScript - The Complete Guide 2025 (Beginner + Advanced)”. It’s a long course - over 50 hours - and will take even longer if, as I intend, I code along with it. Once I complete that, I’ll be looking at refreshing my C# skills, and perhaps looking again at React and TypeScript (which should be easier if I hone my JavaScript skills).

I’m glad to say I’m back. If anyone is looking for a software developer, on the understanding that I’m not fully up to speed, please get in contact.

Alternatively, you can buy me a coffee through the link below.