Ex BBC journalist with AMD launches podcast
Posted: Monday 29 July 2024![Angela Young, a white female in her early 60s in eye clinic shaking hands with consultant ophthalmologist. Both smiling and looking to camera](/media/0qrd3etr/angela-young-podcast.jpg?width=440&height=440&rnd=133667355066700000&quality=40)
A new podcast has been launched by Macular Society member and former BBC journalist Angela Young, who was diagnosed with macular disease at 56.
After her diagnosis in 2017, Angela wanted to turn her personal experience into a chance to share information, raise awareness, and inject humour into a challenging situation.
Taking control
The diagnosis came out of the blue, as a routine eye test revealed she had drusen at the back of her eye. She said: "I was rather taken aback because I thought it was 'an old person's problem' and I was not old."
Although she was initially dismissive, she soon began to notice a loss of vision and decided she needed to do something. This was when her idea to launch a podcast called ‘Talking ‘bout degeneration’ started.
“For me a microphone is my way of taking control of a situation where really I have no control,” she said.
A passion for helping people
With no licensed treatment available to treat dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD), Angela was keen to take a proactive approach and find out as much information as she could.
She said: “I refuse to accept the status quo. I will always do everything in my power to investigate if there is anything else that can be done.”
The podcast is driven by a passion for ensuring that people with AMD have access to the latest information.
"I am passionate about helping people with AMD have access to the latest information,” she said. “Not everyone has the time, resources or ability to access the latest research. I am passionate about being in control of what happens to my body and I want other people to have that same opportunity of making informed choices.”
Asking the right questions
She added: “I thought that as a journalist, I could ask questions on other people's behalf and present all the information – in addition to the helpful advice provided by the Macular Society.
“I also believe that laughter is the best medicine so always look for ways to find humour in a situation – hence the title ‘Talking 'bout degeneration,’ thanks to The Who classic ‘Talking 'bout my generation’.”
‘Talking 'bout degeneration’
The podcast is available to listen to on all podcast platforms, with new episodes out approximately every three weeks. The next episode will discuss red light therapy for AMD. Listen to 'Talking 'bout degeneration' podcast.
Also listen to My Macular and Me podcast
Our monthly webinars have been made into podcasts so you can listen on the go. You can find our podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all of your favourite podcasting platforms.
Support for you
We provide free information and support to those with macular disease, along with their family and friends, to help people keep their independence.