Beryl's Story

I was diagnosed with glaucoma in the late 1990s, and from then for a while, I felt I was carrying a heavy burden.

The thought of possibly losing my sight was too hard to accept. Having to have drops twice a day only hammered home this possibility.

Along with this was the cost. My husband had medication also, but I found my eye drops were much more expensive. Visits to the ophthalmologist were also costly. I was in a fortunate position of being able to afford this, but I do wonder how difficult it must be for some families.

As time went by, I accepted my condition, and did not feel the awful feeling of helplessness.

The Glaucoma News kept me informed, made me realise I was not alone, and gave me a feeling of having some control.

I have told you before that losing my glasses and having to be tested (I hadn't been for a few years), was the saviour for me.

I strongly believe testing for glaucoma should be free, there should be, like breast cancer, clinics that people could go to on a regular basis so that glaucoma is diagnosed in the early stages.