Trip to the opticians saves teenager's life

A teenager from Northumberland owes his life to his optician after she spotted a large brain tumour during a routine eye test.

Sam Storey, who's 19, from Hexham, had delayed making an appointment because he was concerned he may have to wear glasses.

But after suffering headaches and problems with his sight he finally went along, and was glad he did.

Optician Pauline Wellstead, who works at the town's Specsavers store, knew immediately there was something seriously wrong.

Sam was sent to the RVI in Newcastle where doctors told him there was a major tumour on his brain.

He had surgery to remove the tumour, and had to learn to walk and talk again.

Now Sam is on the mend and is in remission. He's managed to get a job as a leisure attendant and has regular check-ups back at the opticians.

He says he owes his life to Pauline and is urging anyone who is thinking twice about visiting their optician to forget their worries. It's an appointment that saved his life.

Watch the full report HERE: