Steve Huth

We often say “what goes around, comes around” with a negative connotation, but Steve Huth, a Janesville Lions Club member, will tell you he knows it differently.

Steve’s story starts with a diagnosis of Fuchs’ Dystrophy, in 2004. Fuchs’ Dystrophy causes the clear layer (cornea) to swell. The disorder can lead to glare, cloudy vision and eye discomfort. Fuchs’ Dystrophy usually affects both eyes and can cause your vision to gradually worsen over years.

Struggling to blink without pain, and after trying a variety of treatments, Steve’s physician recommended a full corneal tissue transplant in his right eye in 2005. Eleven months later, he received a partial transplant in his right eye, followed by a partial corneal transplant in his left eye a year later. Once Steve was fully recovered, his vision was 20-20 in both eyes. “Recovery was intense, my vision would change monthly, and I even got new glasses four times in a year,” says Huth.

Steve’s story with the Lions Eye Bank of Wisconsin didn’t start with his corneal transplants. A Janesville Lions club member for over 30 years, Steve, an LEBW Transporter, had been transporting corneal tissue for years. Brought in by the ability to serve his community and make a difference in the lives of others, Steve has always found comfort in helping others as a Lion. “Many of our service projects revolve around making other people’s lives just a little more beautiful.”

Still a Transporter, and now a double-corneal transplant recipient, Steve has a deep appreciation for those who chose to give the gift of sight. “It can be the light of the moon or the brightness of the sunshine that guides our way; I am always thankful for the people who took the time to share their wishes with their families to donate eye tissue,” says Huth.