A Derry-based support group, which helps to increase the confidence and independence of people living locally affected by macular disease, is set to resume its monthly meetings in September following a summer break.
The group, which is organised by leading sight loss charity the Macular Society in partnership with local people, will hold its first post-summer meeting on Thursday 14 September, from 11am-12.30pm at the Sensory Support Centre, Glendermott Road, Waterside, Derry BT47 6AU.
The group will then meet at the same time and location on the second Thursday of each month, offering information, encouragement and friendship to people who are affected by macular disease.
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) affects the central vision and is the most common cause of sight loss in the UK, affecting more than 600,000 people. More people are affected as our population ages.
Karen Toogood, Macular Society regional manager, said: “The Derry Macular Support Group is here for anybody affected by macular degeneration – we want to encourage as many people to come along as possible. Friends and family are also very welcome.
“It’s good to be able to learn from each other’s experiences and get tips. The peer support can be so helpful. Our groups can really help people increase in confidence and become more independent.
“The group often has guest speakers on a variety of subjects, including macular conditions and their impact on our daily lives. The meetings are also social occasions where we can chat over a cup of tea.”
In Northern Ireland, the Macular Society has been able to establish and run new sight loss support groups across the country thanks to £200,000 of National Lottery funding from the Big Lottery Fund. Thanks to National Lottery players, the charity has more than doubled the number of its support groups in Northern Ireland over the past five years.
For more information on the Derry Macular Support Group, please contact Karen Toogood on 02891 466 305, or email karen.t@macularsociety.org
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