Following your article re Jean Heaven's wait for eye surgery, (Evening Press, April 13) there is a problem that is not being recognised.

The Health Minister is saying waiting lists are falling. What he isn't taking into account is the time one can wait to get on to a waiting list.

I had surgery to right cataracts two years ago when my GP was a fund-holder. It was wonderful to find myself seeing clearly.

Unfortunately, one of the implants has recently broken down, but I was assured it was a simple job to put right and as there is no longer fund holding, I was referred to the District Hospital to see the consultant.

On inquiring when I was likely to get an appointment, I was told it would be at least a year and then I would be put on the waiting list for treatment, which would take another year.

At 77 it looks like I am going to be living with impaired sight for the rest of my life and many of the things I like doing I can no longer take part in.

Joan Merryweather,

Shipton Street,

York.

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