The Macular Society’s March 2025 e-newsletter is out. Below are the headlines – you can read the full stories here.
Welcome to your March enewsletter. We hope you have been enjoying some sunshine where you are. It feels like spring is finally on its way, and we can look forward to getting back outdoors.
We’re delighted to share the incredible news of a groundbreaking gene therapy trial at Moorfields Eye Hospital. The experimental trial has given four young children with a rare, inherited sight condition life-changing improvements to their vision. While the toddlers didn’t have macular disease this marks an exciting step forward and fills us with so much hope for the future.
Rare Disease Day was on Friday 28 February, and Kate tells us about her daily challenges of living with sight loss and the power of peer support, while 10-year-old Archie proves that age isn’t a barrier to making a difference.
Whatever reason you have chosen to be a part of this community we thank you for being here once again. Your support means so much and it’s wonderful to see how much progress we can make together.
Gene therapy trial improves sight in blind toddlers
Four toddlers born with a severe form of childhood blindness have experienced “life-changing improvements” to their sight after participating in an experimental gene therapy trial. But what does this mean for age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and inherited forms of macular disease? We explain more.
Women leading the future of eye care
To mark International Women’s Day, we’ve launched a new episode of the My Macular and Me podcast. We’re joined by consultant ophthalmologist Christiana Dinah as she discusses the role of women in ophthalmology, the challenges they face and why representation matters. Tune in to hear how Christiana is inspiring the next generation of female leaders in eye care.
“The Christmas appeal inspired me to carry on fundraising”
After playing a key role in the Macular Society’s Christmas appeal in 2024, ten-year-old Archie is stepping up his fundraising efforts as he plans a new challenge to raise vital funds for research.
Professor Andrew Lotery answers your questions
For our recent My Macular and Me webinar we were joined by Professor Andrew Lotery to discuss the latest approved treatment for wet AMD. The consultant ophthalmologist also answered your questions on treatments and research.
“Being part of the Macular Society group makes you feel more hopeful”
Kate’s first experience of her rare sight loss condition happened 16 years ago, when she suffered a bleed in her right eye. It left her with peripheral vision only, though a timely injection halted any further sight loss. She shared her story for Rare Disease Day.
What are the costs and benefits of wearable low vision aids?
With so many low vision aids (LVAs) available, choosing the right one can be challenging. Dr Keziah Latham and PhD student Andrew Miller from Anglia Ruskin University share findings from their research comparing LVAs, providing clear, impartial evidence on effectiveness and value for money.
“I wanted to know what I could do to try and help myself”
Claire found herself “alone and lost” as she tried to come to terms with her Stargardt diagnosis, not knowing anybody else with the rare form of sight loss. The 47-year-old tells us how counselling changed her future for the better.
For lovers of cake, cuppas and catch-ups
If you’re a star baker, or you have a sweet tooth, you might feel tempted by some tasty recipes put together by some of the Macular Society team in support of our new Catch-up with Cake! Discover mouthwatering inspiration on our website.
