Paralympian undergoes laser surgery to improve game

Five-time Gold-winning Paralympian Sophie Christiansen has undergone laser eye surgery ahead of competing in the Rio Paralympic Games.

Having previously won gold medals at both the Beijing and London Games, equestrian competitor, Ms Christiansen decided to undergo the method of vision correction to improve her vision for future competitions.

Ms Christiansen was born with cerebral palsy and began horse riding at the age of six as a form of physiotherapy at her local Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) group.

After having the laser surgery with Optimax, Ms Christiansen said: “Having surgery has completely changed my life. It’s one less thing to worry about when I'm training and away competing and I do think that having peripheral vision gives me an extra edge.”

She added honestly: “I was initially sceptical about the surgery due to my disability, but the Optimax consultant and staff reassured me that it could be done and the result is perfect.

“Now when I wake up in the morning I can see immediately, without having to worry about putting things over my head or having spare glasses in case one pair breaks. I am so grateful to have had the surgery in time for the games in Rio.”