Static then Dynamic

Up until March, my dry AMD had not changed significantly since my diagnosis about 6 yrs ago.

A noticeable difference in my vision

One eye is considerably less affected than the other and it's my saving grace. Then a noticeable difference in my vision occurred over the month of March after just seeing my retinal specialist in Feb.

Three months prior to that, I had gotten a new glasses prescription. Went in for a vision test and my 'bad' eye was 20/100 (and remains there) and my good eye was 20/80...with my glasses on!

By providing your email address, you are agreeing to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

First, fear, then a bit of a pity party

I was really flabbergasted by the big change, but they were able to get the good eye to 20/40 with a new Rx, the driving criteria for my state. I got the new glasses within 10 days, but this whole experience has had quite an effect on my outlook.

First, fear, then a bit of a pity party for myself, then sorrow at what might else be in store when I least expect it. My husband has also had recent unexpected health issues, so there has felt like a bit of "piling on" of downers.

I continue to find ways to feel cheerful

It's been a couple of weeks now and I'm begrudgingly letting go of that eternal youth scenario I've clung to forever, and continue to find ways to feel cheerful. As I have been writing this, I saw the first Baltimore oriole and hummingbird of the season right outside my window :)! I love photography and am still able to capture the nature around me.

Adapting to change

Recently, one of those "slides along your book" dome magnifiers arrived from Amazon, and it works great on larger books/papers/magazines. Wearing a tactical headlamp (OK, not a fashion statement) is fabulous for reading, painting doorway trim, and creating artwork which is also an all-encompassing hobby for me.

Embracing the things that bring joy

Warding off worry and fear can be a challenge. Although I haven't achieved 100% success at this, I've found that embracing the things that bring you joy can really quiet down that "pity party."

Hope you can all find something that brings good feelings...and a smile!

Cheers,
Barbara

This article represents the opinions, thoughts, and experiences of the author; none of this content has been paid for by any advertiser. The MacularDegeneration.net team does not recommend or endorse any products or treatments discussed herein. Learn more about how we maintain editorial integrity here.

Join the conversation

Please read our rules before commenting.