Charity sets up new support group
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A national charity has set up a support group in an East Sutherland community to help those with a common eye condition - macular degeneration.
John Furze, Highlands and Islands regional manager for the Macular Society, which is based in Andover, Hampshire, established the new group recently in Brora.
It meets every third Wednesday of the month from 1pm to 3pm at the Brora Hub and the next meeting is set to take place on June 20.
The biggest cause of sight loss in the UK, macular degeneration affects the central point of the retina, called the macula, and causes changes to central vision which can make everyday tasks difficult.
There are two different types, dry, which develops slowly and wet, which develops quickly.
Genetic research funded by the Macular Society is holding out the hope of a cure.
Mr Furze said: “Almsot everybody knows somebody who have macular degeneration. When you lose your central vision, it is almost as if your world closes down.”
The Brora group, which after it is deemed to be on a sound footing, will be self-sufficient, is led by local resident Lesley Brown.
“Everybody is welcome whether they have got macular degeneration or a friend or family member with an eye condition or are simply interested in eye complaints,” said Mr Furze.
“It is a help for people just to meet and speak with others in a similar situation. There is also usually a guest speaker. Tea and coffee are provided .”
