Dragon's Den Star Loses Sight After Misdiagnosis

A former contestant on the BBC series Dragon's Den has lost significant vision in her left eye after doctors failed to properly investigate her symptoms. Noora Lewis, who featured on the show in 2012 to promote an eyeliner product, developed giant cell arteritis in 2021. This rare condition causes inflammation of the arteries in the head and can lead to rapid blindness if not treated promptly.

Birmingham Midland Eye Centre at City Hospital did not diagnose Lewis's condition or provide the necessary biopsy and full steroid treatment. Approximately seven weeks after initial symptoms, she experienced a 50% loss of vision in her affected eye. The Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust has since admitted liability, acknowledging the failings in her care and offering an apology. Lewis is now actively raising awareness about the condition and the importance of timely diagnosis.