When I was 23 years old I went to get a new pair of glasses. I was planning on a trip to see family and wanted to check my glasses were OK because it was a long drive. I fully expected to go in, have my test, pick out a pretty new pair of glasses and a week later go back and collect them.

Instead I was given the news that I had severe keratoconus (a degenerative condition of the cornea) and I was pronounced legally blind.

By the time my husband picked me up and I got into the car, I was sobbing. I couldn't believe that I had just received such life changing news with no warning what so ever. I started thinking about how much this would affect my life and my career (I was about to become a nursing student).

After extensive tests I was advised the extent of my condition was one of the worst they had seen. Nothing would fix it except a corneal transplant for both eyes.

I remember feeling so upset, because while I was becoming excited about receiving new vision, a family would be mourning the loss of their loved one.

I have just received the most treasured gift — my first cornea transplant — and things are better than ever! My doctor is very impressed with my results and said that 'things could not have gone better'!

Against all odds and some very negative attitudes from people thinking I wouldn't make it, I'm more than half way through my nursing program. I have vowed to spend my life using the amazing gift that I have been given.

I have no idea who my donor is, and I will never be able to find the words to express how grateful I am. I owe them my life. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, you have given me my life back.

Tara