My Dry AMD story

When I was in my early forties, my optometrist told me that I had drusen. I had no idea at the time what these were.

Family history of AMD

He said they were the precursor to AMD, and I wasn't surprised because my mother had wet AMD and was severely affected.

Living an eye-healthy lifestyle

I began seeing the doctor every 6 months for a retinal scan and began taking AREDS 2 vitamins twice a day. I began wearing sunglasses and a visor religiously when in the sun. I started eating more dark green leafy vegetables — I eat one of them at least once every day. (Spinach, kale, parsley, broccoli, peas, green peppers). I exercise regularly and I don't smoke.

Hoping my vision remains stable

I still see the doctor twice a year. Each time I go, they tell me that my scan is unchanged!

It's been more than 25 years, and I still have pretty good vision. My doctor says many people remain stable for years, so I'm praying I'm one of those people. I'm very grateful that there are so many new treatments for geographic atrophy (GA) and for wet AMD that were not available to my mother.

So be encouraged if you have drusen — being told that you have drusen doesn't mean you will necessarily lose your vision.