Our long-time go-to for all medical queries, Melanie Hingorani, has retired from working as a consultant at Moorfields Eye Hospital and with us too. Her career had a focus on engagement and quality in eye healthcare, including answering our members’ complex questions.

We first heard of and appointed Melanie as our Medical Adviser on the recommendation of our Patron Veronica van Heyningen. They had collaborated on significant scientific papers about aniridia.

As she steps down, we, representing the aniridia community, are showing our gratitude with our Outstanding Contribution Award.

Clinical expertise in aniridia

Melanie worked as a Consultant Ophthalmologist at Moorfields Eye Hospital where many with aniridia attend. She specialised in genetic eye conditions including aniridia, cataracts, and glaucoma, microphthalmia, and coloboma especially in children.

Her research helped establish the understanding of aniridia as a condition affecting the entire eye, not just the iris. She contributed to key publications including comprehensive reviews in the European Journal of Human Genetics and GeneReviews. These are still important resources for clinicians treating aniridia.

Professional Leadership

Beyond her clinical work, Melanie held several leadership positions. At Moorfields she served as Clinical Director for Quality and Safety and later for External Engagement and Policy.

She also chaired committees and was joint Honorary Secretary at the Royal College of Ophthalmologists.

In 2017, she founded the UK Ophthalmology Alliance (UKOA), which now includes over 95 hospital eye units across the UK. The Alliance works to improve eye care services through standardisation, shared learning, and quality improvement initiatives.

Later she became Clinical Lead for the National Outpatient Programme in Ophthalmology.

Volunteering with Aniridia Network

Leading our medical advice service, Melanie gave detailed, yet understandable answers to questions from our members. For example queries about treatment options and complications with eye drops. She would explain the words of other doctors and give a second opinion. She could explain complex issues without jargon and while giving reassurance.

She presented and provided consultations at Aniridia Network conferences about the surgical approaches and therapeutic options for aniridia.

Between 2019 and 2021 Melanie supported Aniridia Network with hosting the 5th European Aniridia Conference.

Her expertise and approach helped many members better understand their condition and choose the best course for them.

Recognition

In 2023, The College of Optometrists awarded Melanie Honorary Fellowship for her contributions to the profession.

Her work on aniridia and related conditions was published in major medical journals. It continues to inform clinical practice for healthcare professionals treating genetic eye conditions.

The recipients of her treatment and guidance continue to benefit from her skills.

On behalf of all her visually impaired patients, many with aniridia, we thank Melanie for her years of dedication and service. We wish her very well in her retirement.