Ex BBC journalist with AMD launches podcast

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’.”