National Eye Health Week – The best advice and support

Being told you have a macular disease is frightening and disorientating. Often it’s the first time a person has ever heard the word ‘macular’. They may have seen an optician because they thought they needed glasses and instead they’re told they have an irreversible and incurable sight loss condition. Their world has fallen apart. Suddenly the future seems full of fear; a career gone, family life now insecure, happy retirement plans cancelled, caring for others impossible. We are often the first place people turn to in those days of shock, fear and distress. People of all ages and backgrounds contact us. Many are upset or angry, confused or panicky. Some are desperate.

We help with sensible, impartial and independent information. We can refer people to our support services, which includes our local groups, befriending or counselling. And we signpost people to other services too. It’s a sad fact that more than 200 people are diagnosed with macular disease every single day. We’re here to help beat macular disease with the best support and advice and by funding world class research. If you or someone you love needs us, we’re here every weekday on 0300 3030 111 or email help@macularsociety.org.

- Kevin Franklin