Jannette’s story: Why early detection made all the difference 

When Jannette – a former ESL teacher at the University of Sydney – noticed shimmering letters and distorted faces, she didn’t know what was wrong. Her story is a powerful reminder of why regular eye checks matter, and how not ignoring symptoms can make a big difference. Jannette shares her experience. 

When I received my macular disease diagnosis, it explained a lot. Five years ago, I had cataract operations on both eyes. I had been severely short-sighted my whole life, and it was a novelty not to have to wear glasses and have such clear sight. I even passed a driving test without needing glasses for the first time.  

However, not long before my latest licence renewal last year, I noticed that my right eye vision didn’t seem to be as clear as it had been. Letters on signs were shimmery and slightly distorted. I couldn’t read street signs easily and distant faces were unclear. When I did my sight test for driving, I couldn’t read the chart because the letters, even the big E, were ‘dancing’. 

Finding out what was going on  

It was only when I went for my annual eye check that the problem was diagnosed and explained. The specialists explained that I had macular degeneration in my right eye.  

I didn’t know a lot about macular disease before this except that it was very serious. I also didn’t know about wet and dry types. I thought that it was all untreatable and inevitably led to a black spot in the centre of the retina, making the sufferer effectively blind. I remember being very thankful when the specialists explained that my condition was treatable – I was given the first injection into my eye that day. 

Now, I receive an injection into my eye every two months. 

Life after my diagnosis  

My initial reaction to the diagnosis was surprise but also appreciation that my symptoms were explained. I don’t remember anyone in my family having the disease, but I was the only one who had worn glasses since I started school, when my short sight was diagnosed.  

The feelings I have now are of gratitude – that I’m in a position to have treatment, that it was picked up early, and that my eyesight seems to have stabilised and become clearer and sharper after three injections. I think I have been helped by having such excellent support and access to a specialist of standing and expertise. 

Being diagnosed and then treated promptly has made me realise I’m very lucky. It was picked up early in my case because I live near good medical facilities and have regular tests. I do feel for people who aren’t in the same situation. 

Advice for others  

I think being diagnosed early has been very helpful. If I hadn’t had my annual eye check appointment, I might have ignored the symptoms (although they were becoming hard to ignore).  

That’s my message for people – if you have noticed changes in your eyesight, have it checked out, don’t ignore odd symptoms. If it’s like my condition it can be treated and stabilised with timely treatment. It would seem that early diagnosis can make all the difference. 

Noticed changes in your vision? Book an eye check today. For free information and support, call MDFA’s Helpline on 1800 111 709.