My Journey with Dry Macular Degneration

by Lenora McWhorter
(Park Forest, 1L, USA)

I am the first one in my family known to have this retinal disease. It has been three ears since I was first diagnosed with age related macular degeneration (AMD) in both eyes.

I knew little about the condition but soon became aware that there was information available online. The doctor gave me little information at the beginning, only a couple of pamphlets and told me to return in six months. When I asked if the condition was treatable he said there was no cure and could lead to blindness. I was numb for awhile but soon recovered and decided that it wouldn't help to panic.

I did some research and saw that there was two kinds, wet and dry. I also learned that many people are living with this dreadful condition. I was encouraged by reading the reports of others and the many resources out there. On my next visit to the doctor I found out that I had the dry. He recommended some vitamin supplements called"Juice Plus." I have since changed to other brand of supplements and continue to maintain fairly good vision.

REPLY

Thank you Lenora for sharing your story with us. Since you have been diagnosed with AMD, that does mean your children and siblings are at higher risk of developing it. There is a strong genetic component which is in fact the subject of much AMD research. Learn more here:

Is Macular Degeneration Hereditary?

Leslie