A support group for people with sight loss living in and around Storrington is encouraging people to join its monthly meetings, to help retain their independence and reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation.
The meetings, currently taking place over the telephone due to the pandemic, are organised by leading sight loss charity the Macular Society, in partnership with members of the Storrington Macular Society Support Group.
The aim of the group is to offer information, encouragement and friendship to people who are affected by macular disease – the biggest cause of sight loss in the UK.
Group Leader Philippa Wrightson, who is a retired ophthalmic nurse, said: “We are a very welcoming group and want to reach out to as many people as possible. Whether you want more advice and information about your condition or just people to talk to and share your experiences, the Macular Society is there for you.
“There are many people living with sight loss in the Storrington area, please don’t feel alone and get in touch with us.”
If you’re interested in finding out more about the Macular Society’s Storrington Group call 01903 743 182.
Nearly 1.5 million people – including children and adults – are currently affected by macular disease, with many more people at risk. The disease can have a devastating effect on people’s lives, leaving them unable to drive, read or see faces. Many people affected describe losing their sight as being similar to bereavement.
There is still no cure and most types of the disease are not treatable. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the most common form of macular disease, affecting more than 600,000 people, usually over the age of 50.
For more information on macular disease, call the Macular Society on 0300 3030 111 or email help@macularsociety.org