Grace

Grace’s Journey with Wet AMD: A Story of Persistence and Hope

Grace was 61 when she experienced the first signs of what would become a life-changing condition. As she prepared for an extended winter visit to Hawaii—a tradition she shared with her late husband—Grace noticed something unusual. Descending a staircase, the straight lines of the wall and banister appeared wavy. Having never needed glasses before, she scheduled an eye exam with an optometrist, assuming she might need corrective lenses.

Her optometrist quickly identified something more serious: wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Grace was immediately referred to a retina specialist for expert care.

Grace was fortunate to be diagnosed early, a critical factor in preserving her vision. She was offered several treatment options, including participating in a clinical trial. Despite the fear and uncertainty that came with the prospect of eye surgery, Grace chose to contribute to the advancement of AMD treatments by enrolling in the trial.

“I felt I was young enough to make a difference,” Grace said. “I wanted to help pave the way for others, even if it meant undergoing something experimental.”

The trial involved surgery to implant a nuclear isotope into her eye. Though the treatment ultimately proved unsuccessful, Grace’s participation added valuable data to the study, helping to advance AMD research.

After the clinical trial, Grace’s wet AMD was treated with intravitreal injections or eye injections. Her treatment regimen evolved as new medications became available. She now receives bi-monthly rather than monthly eye injections, a testament to how far wet AMD treatments have come.

Grace credits the expert care she’s received from several retina specialists with helping preserve her vision; they hold a special place in her heart. “Of course, there is fear when you are diagnosed with AMD and need eye injections, but don’t be afraid because it’s a wonderful gift that we have these treatments, and without them, I would have gone blind,” Grace said. “All of the retina specialists who have cared for me have been such wonderful people; they have been calm and caring, and each has become a friend.”

Despite the challenges of wet AMD, Grace has continued to live an active and fulfilling life. Though her vision in her right eye has worsened, her left eye remains stable, allowing her to continue to drive and maintain her independence. She’s adapted to changes in her vision over time by embracing tools like audiobooks, which have reignited her love for the written word, and she remains active in her community and church. “I haven’t lost anything; I’ve just adjusted. It’s about focusing on what you can still do rather than what you can’t,” Grace said.

Grace has become a vocal advocate for AMD awareness, urging others to pay attention to their vision and seek immediate care from a retina specialist if they notice symptoms like wavy lines.

Now approaching her 80th birthday, Grace reflects on her journey with gratitude. “I’m lucky,” she said. “I’ve had the best care and the opportunity to receive treatments that have given me my life back. AMD is not the end; it’s a condition you can live with and manage.”