Lisburn Exiles Forum

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Just a few words

As you know, I have developed macular degeneration. It came on slowly over I suppose a long period of timne without my even knowing. I was diagnosed with the condition last year and informed that there was nothing could be done for my particular type (dry). Six months ago I had a full eye test to satisfy myself and the car insurance people that I was fit to drive. At that time I was passed fit.. However, over the past month or so I have noticed my sight becoming much worse. Once more, to satisfy myself, I had another eye test. My worst fears were confirmed. The macular degeneration has progressed rapidly and I am no longer alloweto drive. The reason I mention all this is that I am now finding it very difficult to see what I am typing. I have been referred back to the Eye Clinic in the Mater, so will know more when they have seen me. I intend to ask quite a few questions. If my sight doesn't deteriorate any further, I will be able to keep posting, but we'll have to wait and see. Sorry not to have better news but don't we share everything - good and bad? Another gift from Old Father Tyme.

Re: Just a few words

Ann,

Sorry to hear that your eyesight has worsened and that it is affecting your use of the computer for typing. Frances has a similar condition and she also was experiencing some difficulty typing.

I don't know if you are using a tablet or a laptop or what control your operating system will allow over the keyboard regarding font size.

We use I-Pads ( tablets) for our correspondence and we have cranked the font size to the max on her machine. She has found this useful.

40

Re: Just a few words

Ann, thank you for sharing this with us, not easy for you to do. When you see the specialist ask for an eye scan, which is the only way to know if it is wet or dry. As you know the dry condition can change to wet, and then there is hope as they can treat wet with injections. So I am praying for you that there will be help available somehow.

It has indeed moved very quickly, mine is a slow deterioration, but I still notice it.

Keep on posting and keeping us informed and interested in what you are doing, and I hope your appointment is very soon

Liz

Re: Just a few words

Ann, Really sorry to hear about your eye problem, my wife Joy had a similar problem several years ago but after numerous consultations with an eye surgeon had an operation on her eyes which proved successful. While I fully realize that every case is different I would strongly recommend you forgetting the National Health Service and making a private appointment with an eye surgeon to see if anything can be done?? Mauri

Re: Just a few words

Ann,
I am so saddened to hear of your MD. I agree with Mauri, if possible get a second opinion.
My information is of a procedure called "telescope" surgery.
I have a good friend here in South Carolina who at 80 years had this, and now at 93 can still function (see).
If I can help further let me know.
Allen Harrison..20 Spruce St.

Re: Just a few words

Carolina, good to hear from you. Very interesting to hear about your friend's successful procedure and it would be wonderful if it was available here and proved to be successful. At present I am waiting for an appointment at a Macular Clinic. I have been there before and at that time I was discharged because nothing more could be done. Since then, my sight has deteriorated very much and I have been re-referred to the Clinic. So, I'll just have to wait and see what happens and what they suggest, if anything. Sometimes I get very frustrated and depressed about the whole thing, but what's the point. I know there are people with much more serious conditions and illnesses and I should count myself lucky that I have the health I enjoy. However, the loss of clear sight is very debilitating and has placed me in a position I never, ever envisaged in my life. I'm still very much coming to terms with it so forgive me if I sound a bit full of my own woes at present. However, I try and get on the Forum although it is very difficult to see what I'm doing and the little arrows at the side have just about disappeared. Glad to hear from you anyhow and thanks for your concern.

Re: Just a few words

Yesterday I attended the Eye Clinic at the Royal in Belfast. I had been given an appointment due to a cancellation (and some persistence). A procedure called a capsulotomy (I think) was carried out on both eyes. It was painless and consisted of laser being used to puncture the build up of debris. I expect it will take 2 or 3 days before I will know if it has been a success. However, I am hopeful it will improve my sight somewhat at the very least. I think I expected to be able to see everything clearly immediately but I was wrong. I am grateful that I have had some treatment and the next couple of days will determine how much my sight has improved (or not).