Katie Piper shares emotional health update after eye surgery as she says she’s finally ‘reached the end of the road’
KATIE Piper has shared an emotional update with her fans following undergoing surgery to protect her left eye.
The Loose Women star, 41, revealed she shared how she is going to have an artificial eye, after “battling” with her eye health for years.
Taking to Instagram, she wrote: “After many years battling with my eye health, I’ve reached the end of 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 health care system for their talent and kindness.
“I will share my journey, I’m hopeful and nervous about being able tolerate it and would love to hear from any of you in the comments if you’ve been on this journey or have any advice…”
Katie shared a photo and video showing her procedure of having her prosthetic eye inserted.
Fans were quick to rush to support Katie and offer her encouragement in the comments.
Real Housewives of Cheshire star Tanya Bardsley said: “You are so brave and a inspiration to all.”
One fan praised her saying: “You will boss this and inspire others.”
Another added: “You’re so strong brave and fearless. Nothings ever got in your way & you’ve never let any of them win!”
The Loose Women presenter and activist suffered a horrific acid attack in 2008 that left her with severe facial injuries.
The attack, orchestrated by her ex boyfriend, caused significant damage to her face and eyesight, and she continues to need medical treatment and operations to ease the pains caused by scar tissue.
She told The Sun she was lucky to have survived, but there was an agonising road to recovery ahead to rebuild her face and her life – her injuries have required more than 400 operations since that day.
For the first two years following the attack, Katie had to wear a clear plastic mask on her face.
In the years since she has blazed a trail, pushing for greater diversity in public life and the TV industry.
She has gone on to make two further personal documentaries with Channel 4, wrote her autobiography, a series of self-development books, as well as newspaper and magazine columns, plus took on public speaking engagements and set up the Katie Piper Foundation, which provides support for burns survivors.
In the make-up chair with Katie
Do you have any skincare heroes?
I really love using La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume and La Roche-Posay Anthelios FluideInvisible, SPF50+.
What do you splurge on?
It has to be my hair straighteners – I love my Dyson Airstrait.
Any beauty bargains?
Wild’s natural deodorants.
What are your make-up bag essentials?
L’Oréal Paris True Match Foundation, Charlotte Tilbury Lipstick in Pillow Talk as well as Myvitamins Hair, Skin & Nails Gummies.
Best beauty hacks?
I use Cicaplast Baume as a face mask and a night cream. I just apply a thick layer of it all over my face and neck – but I don’t rub it in, I just let it sink in.
Who’s your celebrity beauty icon?
Pamela Anderson is beautiful.
Calling out trolls
In October, ITV stars rallied around Katie after she called out a troll who made a vile comment about her appearance.
Katie addressed her followers, having opened her Instagram that morning to the nasty message.
The troll cruelly asked, “where is your nose?” to which she responded that her nose was being pulled into her face by thick scar tissue, causing her horrible pain.
The troll then suggested that she should jump from a window.
Katie shared the exchange in a post on Instagram, admitting comments like this can set her back.
She said: “After completing my run this morning, feeling already depleted because of my bad time, I opened my phone to this.
“I can handle most things, but sometimes it adds to an already heavy load you are carrying.
“You never know how people are feeling, what they’re going through, how their days are and even if you did, the only person we’re judging because of this comment, is you.
“I wouldn’t usually call this out so personally, but this is beyond anything even I can handle. This behaviour should always be called out, people need to do better.”
Dozens shared their horror at the message and support for Katie, with Coleen Nolan, Ranvir Singh, Adil Ray and Denise Welch among the first to post in the comments.
Coleen said: “Oh god Katie this is so so vile ! I think these kind of people have no life , no friends and would prefer hate towards them then nothing at all.
“I’m trying to feel sorry for this sad individual but I’m finding it really difficult.. you on the other hand are one of the most beautiful individuals I’ve ever met. Never let anyone dull your shine.”
Adil said: “Sending you love and strength Katie.
“Yes do call this out, but please don’t let this horrid negativity occupy your mind.
“You’re an absolute inspiration to all of us, in so many ways. You have taught us bravery and tenacity. Keep going, keep smiling and keep being beautiful inside and out.”