2025-08-09T13:00:00Z

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Can you imagine living a decade in darkness, only to see your loved one and your furry friend for the first time? That's exactly what happened to Gail Lane, a 75-year-old woman from Victoria, B.C., who recently experienced the miracle of sight restoration thanks to a groundbreaking surgery involving her own tooth.

After losing her vision to an autoimmune disorder that left her with scarred corneas, Gail Lane underwent a rare procedure known as osteo-odonto keratoprosthesis in February, making her one of the first Canadians to receive this extraordinary treatment.

In the weeks following the intricate two-part surgery, Lane could gradually discern light, then movement, eventually catching glimpses of her partner Phil's face and the wagging tail of Piper, her service dog. Imagine the thrill of seeing the world transform from a blurry shadow to vibrant colors and familiar shapes!

“I can see lots of colour and I can see outside now. The trees, the grass, and the flowers. It’s a wonderful feeling to be able to see some of those things again,” Lane shared, bursting with excitement. After nearly six months post-surgery, she finally met her partner Phil with her own eyes for the very first time.

Before her surgery, Lane relied heavily on an app called Be My Eyes, which connects visually impaired users with volunteers for help with everyday tasks. Now, she's thrilled to be picking out her own outfits without assistance. Just picture the joy of choosing your clothes after years of depending on someone else!

Dr. Greg Moloney, the ophthalmologist who pioneered this surgery in Canada at Mount Saint Joseph Hospital, described the procedure as intricate and unique. “It’s a complex and strange operation, but it basically involves replacing the cornea,” he explained. The process includes removing a tooth from the patient's mouth, allowing it to heal in the cheek for several months, then using it to anchor a new lens in the eye. This innovative method offers hope to many who have lost their sight.

Though the recovery was uncomfortable, Lane insists it was a small price to pay for the independence she longed for. “It’s been a long wait, but well worth it,” she said. Lane is looking forward to regaining her mobility and taking short walks without needing someone to guide her. “I’m just looking forward to seeing what I can do or do again,” she added, emphasizing the importance of patience and allowing her brain to adjust to her new vision.