Macula checks at Government House NSW

His Excellency General the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Ret’d) Governor of New South Wales and Mrs Linda Hurley had an eye test and macula check at Government House in support of Macular Degeneration Awareness Week 2015.

“I am fortunate to have had good eyesight my entire life. This has helped me to fulfil the responsibilities of my previous military career, as well as the everyday activities we all undertake.

That is why as Governor of New South Wales, I am urging all those at risk, especially those over 50, to join me in having their eyes tested and macula checked.

His Excellency General the Honourable David Hurley AC DSC (Ret’d)

Associate Professor Alex P Hunyor conducted the eye test and macula check with the Governor and Mrs Hurley, and explained the testing process which included using an optical coherence tomography and digital retina camera which allows macular degeneration to be identified in its earliest stages.

It’s important that people understand what macular degeneration is and the importance of getting their eyes checked, and macula looked at in particular.

Associate Professor Alex Hunyor

People need to understand early detection of the disease can lead in some cases to early treatment and much better visual results. They shouldn’t ignore any sudden changes in their vision and just attribute changes to age. They should get their eyes checked promptly.”

“There are over 360,000 residents of New South Wales with some evidence of macular degeneration,” said Julie Heraghty, Chief Executive Officer, Macular Disease Foundation Australia. “We are honoured that the Governor and Mrs Hurley were able to be Custodians of Vision for the week, reminding all New South Welshmen of the importance of looking after their sight.”

Thank you to His Excellency, Mrs Hurley, Associate Professor Alex P Hunyor and OptiMed for supporting the Foundation and Macular Degeneration Awareness Week.

Posted: 27 May 2015