BRC, Macugen
Offer Hope
Two years ago I became blind due to diabetic retinopathy, which caused severe bleeding problems in both of my eyes. Diabetic retinopathy is a complication of diabetes and a leading cause of blindness. The diabetes damages the tiny blood vessels inside the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye.
If you have diabetic retinopathy, you may not initially notice any changes to your vision. Over time, however, the condition can worsen and cause loss of vision. It can affect both eyes.
I lost my vision very fast. There was no warning. I felt it was the end of the world for me. I was devastated. Help came when I heard about the VA Blind Rehabilitation Center in West Palm Beach, Florida. I have completed the basic training and am currently learning how to use computers.
Some of the best news, however, is that the FDA approved the drug Macugen about one year ago. Macugen is the first of a new series of drugs that suppress new blood vessel growth in wet macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. Macugen is administered through an injection to the eye. The treatment is now being tested by the Pfizer Corporation. If successful, would this not be a wonderful development for so many?
Jon Blough
Ft. Myers, Florida
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