Global News Podcast The Happy Pod: 'I'm blind but I can read a book again'
20 snips
Oct 25, 2025 
In a touching discussion, Fergus Walsh, BBC medical editor, unveils a pioneering retinal implant that allows blind patients to read again. Harry Bly shares captivating stories, including a woman who played the clarinet during brain surgery, helping doctors treat Parkinson's with precision. Meanwhile, hiker Craig Campbell recounts his thrilling encounter with a bear, showcasing his heroic Doberman, Knight. They cover heartwarming themes of innovation and survival, leaving listeners inspired and uplifted.
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Microchip Restores Reading Vision
- A tiny 2mm-by-2mm chip implanted behind the retina can restore central vision for reading in some blind patients.
- Trial patients improved by about 25 letters on average and 27 of 32 could read using central vision after a year.
Sheila Irwin Reads Again
- Sheila Irwin, previously unable to read letters, now puts on the glasses and reads books and Sudoku again.
- She cried when she regained reading and celebrated by punching the air at seeing letters once more.
Narrow But Practical Vision
- The restored vision is narrow and best suited to seated tasks like reading one word at a time rather than walking around.
- Patients use the glasses for focused activities like opening post, Sudoku and reading after rushing chores.