Lois' story
Lois (left)
I am pleased to take this opportunity to tell my own journey from diagnosis of Macular Degeneration to my situation at present. I only hope that these few words will encourage others newly diagnosed with MD that there is help to be found and hope for a continued normal life.
It was 10 years ago, 2003, when I was 73, that I visited my optometrist having noticed, whilst playing golf, that the “putting pin” appeared crooked and wavy. It was decided I needed to visit an ophthalmologist which I urgently did only to have my hopes dashed by being told I had Macular Degeneration in the Right eye and there was nothing that could be done.
I was very upset but decided I must seek another opinion and my optician arranged another appointment for me - again my hopes were dashed as this ophthalmologist was retiring 1 hour after my visit!! He was, however, very helpful and introduced me to a top Retinal Specialist whom I have been seeing ever since. This all took 6 months and not at all ideal.
After a confirmed diagnosis of my problem right eye I was treated with the best available at this time - Visudyne Therapy treatment and later eye injections with Avastin.
The central vision in my Right eye deteriorated after 4 years and it was decided to discontinue treatment. My peripheral sight was good. It was at this time that my Left eye showed early signs of MD and it was immediately treated with a new available drug, Lucentis, that is injected into the eye.
Awful as it sounds, it is quick and painless and I have continued these injections monthly - had well over 50!! - with the result my sight has stabilised and I am able to drive and continue the activities I have always enjoyed - sport, travel, photography and computer work etc.
The awareness of this common eye problem is being well documented and publicised by the newly formed Macular Degeneration NZ Foundation .
I urge all of you over 50 years to read all you can on MD and visit your optician regularly - Macular Degeneration is not life threatening but life changing - early detection is imperative.
