Heather’s story

I found Glaucoma UK after my diagnosis, and they’ve been a great source of information and support. The helpline has been very helpful, and I think the buddy system is such a great idea.

I was in shock when the consultant told me I had advanced glaucoma in both eyes. I couldn’t believe it, I was in denial. I wasn’t given much information, other than being told to inform the DVLA about my diagnosis. It all came out of the blue, and I knew nothing about the disease – I’ve never even looked it up.  

After the diagnosis, I became very worried. I thought I would slowly lose my vision and how that might affect my ability to drive. As a mum of two boys, the idea of not being able to drive felt really challenging. My family may not fully understand the extent of it, or the constant worry it causes me every day. 

There was a 3-year delay in my diagnosis and treatment, and I believe that delay caused my condition to progress from something that could’ve been monitored in clinic to advanced glaucoma. I also think I lost some of my vision because of that delay. I’ve had eye drops, but they didn’t work well for me, and since as my glaucoma was already advanced, I had to go straight to surgery. 

There’s no history of glaucoma in my family, but I’ve spoken to my brothers about it. I’d like to take this opportunity to encourage to everyone to keep up with their eye tests. Early detection is so important. 

I found Glaucoma UK after my diagnosis, and they’ve been a great source of information and support. The helpline has been very helpful, and I think the buddy system is such a great idea. I’ve used the helpline when I needed more information, and I connected with someone through buddy system to talk about my upcoming operation. The online webinars have also been informative and reassuring.

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