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Six-year-old girl has sight restored thanks to life-changing eye gene therapy

Six-year-old girl has sight restored thanks to life-changing eye gene therapy

Saffie Sandford, aged six, has experienced a remarkable improvement in her sight after receiving pioneering gene therapy through the NHS. Diagnosed with a rare inherited condition which severely limits vision and can lead to blindness, Saffie struggled especially in low light. After specialist assessment at Moorfields Eye Hospital, she received Luxturna, a groundbreaking one-off treatment delivering a healthy gene directly into the eye. The results have been transformative. Saffie can now see in the dark, navigate her surroundings more safely, and enjoy everyday childhood activities that were previously impossible. Her parents describe the change as life-altering, expressing deep gratitude for the opportunity given to her. Research confirms that early treatment can strengthen visual pathways, particularly in younger children during key developmental stages. While not described as a permanent cure, the therapy offers real hope.