“The most thrilling thing I have ever done”

Turning 71 became an unforgettable milestone for retired teacher Janet as she plummeted from 12,000 feet, all to raise awareness and funds for macular disease.

While most people treat themselves to a slice of cake on their birthday, Janet, who has age-related macular degeneration (AMD), took part in a skydive, after being encouraged to do so by a friend from her line dancing group.

“It was the most thrilling thing I have ever done,” she said. “The adrenaline rush, the wind as you freefall, it was all phenomenal.

“To everyone who has donated and supported, I just want to say a huge thank you. And I was pleased afterwards because people would ask about macular disease, or they would know someone affected.”

Her skydive raised £700 for the Macular Society and she has no plans to stop yet.

She said: “It’s why fundraising is so important. Things like the Macular Society wouldn't be there if people didn't fundraise, would they? And I’m thinking of a wingwalk next time!”

Put at ease through charity's helpline 

Janet’s mother had wet AMD so she had an idea of how the condition might affect her when she received her own diagnosis six years ago. It was then she reached out to the Macular Society, for advice and guidance.

She said: “My mum became very depressed. So, having seen all that I was a bit anxious to be told I had AMD. Even though I knew the concept, to be told I had it was still a bit of a shock.

“So, it was at that point I Googled to find out more and I found the Macular Society. I joined because I wanted to find out more as much as I could, I wanted to know what to expect, and to have that support and technology advice.

“I was anxious but speaking to the helpline helped to put me at ease. I have received so much information, it’s been so informative and positive to keep up to date with all sorts of research and technological developments. I know if it comes to it there are aids to help me and I know where to go and get them.”

Future offers 'a lot to feel very positive about'

Janet is now a secretary of her local Women’s Institute (WI) branch, as well as a keen line dancer.

“I’m conscious of what I can do now and maybe what I won’t be able to do one day. But like the line dancing, I could carry that on with routines and step guides spoken out to me. And I won’t lose my sight completely, so I’ll know there are people around me,” she said.

For Janet, who describes her eyesight as “good” and is “thankful” for injections to keep further sight loss at bay, it’s all about keeping positive as she remains optimistic about living with macular disease in the future.

She said: “I am conscious of losing my sight, of course, but with all the information I get from the Macular Society, and with all the progress that’s being made and research that is taking place, there is a lot to feel very positive about.

“So much is being developed and discovered and on the technology side, there’s so much happening. I’ll be able to use my smartphone for different things and of course while I always hope they'll discover a magical cure, failing that there’s always a way around something.”