A Powys nurse currently working in the Intensive Care Unit at Nevill Hall Hospital in Abergavenny, has praised a local optician for going the extra mile to help her get new glasses.

Jo Davies and colleague Angie Organ returned to join the NHS team at Nevill Hall’s Intensive Care Unit part of the Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, at the beginning of April, having been released by Powys Teaching Health Board from their usual jobs in Llandrindod and Brecon.

"Soon into this extremely challenging roll it became very apparent, with all the PPE equipment we had to wear, that my usual glasses were not standing up to the test of time and they were becoming significantly damaged by the pressure of our masks and the cleaning process they had to go through each time we removed PPE, which was three times during a 12 hour shift," explained Jo.

"Without my specs I can’t see so something had to be done and quickly but how with lockdown and social distancing could this be achieved?

"I contacted a friend, Sue Bacon who I knew was good friends with Kiran Matharu at First Optic in Brecon to see if there was any way she would be able to help.

"In next to no time Sue informed me Kiran had offered me an emergency appointment and with my eyes tested and frames chosen, my new specs were delivered and fitted within about a week.

"All strict social distancing rules were observed but with such kindness and care. The staff were extremely supportive, appreciating immediately the need both Angie and I were in and they responded appropriately and efficiently to that need.

"We cannot thank them enough they truly are our heroes and I’m delighted to say that a month on the glasses are still perfect," said Jo.

Jo (front right) with Kiran (front left) and the socially distanced First Optic team and with her new glasses back on the ward