Juvenile Macular Degeneration at 15 Years Old

by Porcher

When I turned 15, I was diagnosed with wet juvenile macular degeneration. It was a bit of a traumatic experience, to be sure, but I got through. Luckily, I was young enough that it was easier for my body to heal. Unluckily, we caught it too late for there to be any reversal of damage.

I went through three lasik surgeries (the one where they use a photosynthesizing drug and shoot a laser into the back of your retina) which have helped immensely.

I was also very lucky that this happened only in my left eye.

I am now 21 years old and I have not had any new "bleeds" in almost three years.

The best things I've found to help me are just living life. I am a freelance photographer and going to school as a triple major in design, English and creative writing. I have found that the best way to get through these sometimes tricky times is to stay positive.

If anything, the experiences have made me stronger and a better designer. I literally see things a different way, and that's what a designer is meant to do.

So really, don't I have the upper hand? I think so. I think the best thing I can do for myself is move forward.

I've written and illustrated my own children's books, and I think that helps me relax. I've also created my own business with little owls, and that has also helped.

REPLY

Thank you Porcher for taking the time to share your story. You are an inspiration to all. Attitude is as important as treatment!

Wishing you the best.

Leslie