TV presenter and activist Katie Piper has revealed she is trying out an artificial eye, more than 16 years after surviving an acid attack that left her with life-changing burns and partial blindness.
New Medical Journey
The Loose Women panellist, 41, shared an emotional video on Instagram, appearing to show her being fitted with a prosthetic eye.
In her post, she wrote:
“After many years battling with my eye health, I’ve reached the end of the road somewhat, and the decision has been made to try a prosthetic eye shell.
“This marks the start of a journey to have an artificial eye, with an incredible medical team behind me.
“As always, I’m incredibly grateful to all those in the NHS and private healthcare system for their talent and kindness.”
Piper also invited others who have undergone similar procedures to share their experiences, adding that she was both hopeful and nervous about the process.
Support from Celebrities and Fans
Piper’s announcement was met with an outpouring of support, with TV presenter Stacey Dooley and radio star Gaby Roslin leaving heart emojis in the comments.
Model Lisa Snowdon praised her as a “warrior” and “true inspiration”, while singer Lucy Spraggan added:
“I was just trying to think of a word to describe you, and I literally can’t – your energy surpasses words. You are a wonder.”
A Long Journey of Recovery
Piper has undergone hundreds of operations since March 2008, when she survived an acid attack orchestrated by her ex-boyfriend at the age of 24.
In 2022, she told ITV’s Loose Women that she had an emergency cornea transplant after experiencing a perforation and pain in her left eye, which she is blind in.
A Life Dedicated to Helping Others
Katie Piper Foundation
- In 2009, Piper founded the Katie Piper Foundation, which provides support for burn survivors and those with disfigurement injuries.
- She has since received an honorary doctorate from the Royal College of Surgeons for her work in the field.
Public Recognition and Awards
- 2009: She bravely gave up her right to anonymity and starred in Channel 4’s Katie: My Beautiful Face, a documentary about her recovery.
- 2021: She was made an OBE in the Queen’s New Year Honours list for her services to charity and victims of burns and disfigurement injuries.
- Present Day: She hosts ITV’s Katie Piper’s Breakfast Show and continues to be an advocate for body positivity and survivor support.
Moving Forward
Piper’s journey towards an artificial eye marks yet another chapter in her inspiring story of resilience. She remains a symbol of strength for survivors worldwide, using her platform to raise awareness, inspire, and educate others.
Further updates on her progress will be shared as her treatment continues.
