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I was 25 when I was diagnosed with glaucoma.
I was an apprentice plumber in my 4th year, I enjoyed going to work everyday and found a lot of fulfilment in helping people get on with their day.
I was seeing a specialist to try and treat it, unfortunately I later made the mature decision to give up the career because of the uncertainty.
Now I am 27, I have just had my 5th surgery on my right eye which has taken its toll on me and my personal life, I am doubtful and willing to accept my vision may not ever be the same again.
I urge anyone who is my age or younger to reach out and not to give up the fight, anything can happen and you are not alone in any of this. I want to raise awareness to people that this can happen at any age and that it does not just happen to old people and you can still lead a fulfilling life with this disease, you are not alone, stay positive.
Living in York Peninsula community two hour's drive from Adelaide and with no optometrist in her local community, Debra booked an appointment as soon as she could. That’s when she received her life changing diagnosis.
When Bette Smith’s cousin told her they had glaucoma in the family, she did what all Australians should be doing, she got her eyes checked.
My mother was diagnosed with glaucoma when she was about seventy, so I was closely monitored. When there were indicators that I could be following the same path, I was referred to a glaucoma specialist.