THE MACULAR
DEGENERATION COMMUNITY

Name: Jan Powell

Born: 2/17/52

Home: Meadville PA

Diagnosis: Myopic Wet MD

Eyes Affected: Both

Eye Color: Brown

Age at Diagnosis: 45 (have been noticeably symptomatic for a year, though)

Visual Acuity: Left 20/300. Right 1/200 (no center vision)

Treatment: Hot laser, left eye, to stop hemorrhage

Prognosis or Current State of Vision: Stable

Family History: Mother very near-sighted, no known MD in family history

Impact on My Life: Had to change occupation, stop driving, and limit reading.

Positive Effects: This has made me more grateful for all that I do have and I try to make each day count.

Adaptations: I use lighted magnifiers for reading books, I have computer software for magnification and speech, and I use a CCTV. I have made many adaptations in my daily living from putting on my makeup to cleaning my house.

Working: Lost job due to downsizing 12/00. Starting a home office service business, to be launched in 3/01.

More About Me: I am married and have four grown children and three grandchildren. My husband is disabled with major back and heart problems and is my chauffer. I enjoy a full and fun life, and I consider myself a little limited, but not disabled.