Living with Macular Degeneration - The Kelly Family
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"I was a wreck when I left the doctor," says Janet, "my heart was aching for my little boy. When I learned that the disease is inherited, somehow I felt responsible." 33 years later, John, now 36, has managed to have a normal and active life until 1995 when something happened. His right eye suddenly deteriorated and doctors gave him a grim prognosis. John found himself spiraling into a deep depression. After a lot of soul searching, John decided not to let his disease get the best of him. That same year, he got involved with Sail For Sight, a Baltimore-based fundraising event benefiting FFB. Thanks to John's efforts, revenue for the event tripled. Unfortunately for the Kelly family, it is not only his Mother and he with Best disease. His son, Johnny, and nephew, David, have also been diagnosed with Best. "Hearing about my son and nephew was painful," says John. "I don't want them to go through the hardships that I went through." While John and his family continue to face many challenges, they are hopeful about the future. "After reading about the dog whose vision was restored through gene therapy," says Janet. "It is a very encouraging time." John shares his mother's optimism. "I feel confident that through the work of The Foundation and by moving research to clinical trials, a cure could be very close at hand," says John. "I have great hopes that it will happen in time for my son and my nephew, and who knows, it might even happen in time for me and my Mom. All I know is that I want Johnny and David to be the last generation of Kellys that will ever have to face this disease again." Macular Degeneration, including Best disease, is a key research area for FFB. Learn more about these diseases in the Macular Degeneration section. Also, share with others your questions, concerns, fears and hopes on-line in the Macular Degeneration Message Board. Related Links: www.maculardegeneration.org You can help the Kelly family and others by helping fund research to find cures and treatments for blindness. Become active in your local community or donate on-line. |
