JUDY'S JOLTS OF HOPE For Macular Degenerates

      My name is Judy, and I have been recently told I have the eye condition known as macular degeneration. In April 1999, I was diagnosed with the wet exudative form of MD in the right eye, and dry atrophic MD in the left. Over a period of six weeks, I underwent two photocoagulation surgeries in my right eye in order to stop the neovascularization and hopefully prevent profound central vision loss. I am now legally blind in this eye. My left eye is showing some signs of deterioration, but has not yet turned wet! I am now able to write these despicable words, "Macular Degeneration," without weeping. That's progress my friends, an important first step!

      I live in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. I have recently turned 60, but prefer to still think of myself as only 59. This change in age was traumatic, as I like to think I am still youthful and dynamic. Such dreaming!

      I have been married for 32 years to Antoine, a sensitive, caring husband. He is an artist by profession, and his paintings can be seen in private collections and galleries across Canada. We also have three wonderful children.

      Professionally qualified as a Special Educator/Social Counselor, I have worked for many years in the field of rehabilitation. I have helped adolescents with behavioral problems, handicapped people cope with adaptation and, more recently, as an addiction counselor helping people overcome their particular disease of dependence. How could I tell this work would provide me with the insights that would, hopefully, lead me to come to terms with MD?

      I am presently on sick leave, but hope to return to work soon, in a progressive manner, for as long as I can. Maybe this cursed disease will give me a better understanding of the needs of others.

      Helplessness, anger, despair, depression, are strongly felt emotions that I have associated with this disease, and most people with MD experience some of them at one time or another. I am slowly learning, with help, how to handle these intense reactions in order to prepare for the future. It is not easy, but has to be done in order to find some sort of peace.

      I could fill pages with my distress, but prefer to share with you my arduous progress towards the ultimate goal of acceptance. I know in my heart that today is but a reprieve, and I still fear the moment when my left eye goes, and the curtain falls.

      I most definitely want to survive this tragedy and move on with my other senses in order to make a new life for myself. This web page is part of a brand new beginning for me, and I hope that it will also help you on your journey to acceptance. Trust in yourself, and be like the Nike commercial: "Just Do It!"

      I was encouraged to create this site by a new friend I made through the MD SUPPORT WEB SITE. This helping hand has, and still is, helping me and others learn how to cope with this dread disease. I would like to dedicate these Jolts of Hope to this very caring and sensitive individual.