CNIB Launches Unique Support Program for Leading Cause of Vision Loss
Comprehensive help now available for people living with AMD
TORONTO, Sept. 23 /CNW/ - CNIB launches its new EyeConnect AMD Support program today, a comprehensive support system for Canada's leading cause of vision loss, age-related macular degeneration (AMD). More Canadians have AMD than breast cancer, prostate cancer, Alzheimer's and Parkinson's combined.
"EyeConnect is a sophisticated program that fills an incredible need in this country," says Dr. Keith Gordon, CNIB's Vice President Research and Service Quality. "From now on, Canadians dealing with AMD will know they're not alone, and that they have the practical and emotional support they need every step of the way."
The first-of-its-kind program is one of the most comprehensive resources ever developed for people with AMD - supporting not only patients, but family members, with timely referrals to CNIB's range of rehabilitation programs and AMD services, like training on how to live with reduced vision, and access to information and treatments for the disease.
A recent Ipsos survey indicated that awareness of AMD in Canada is low. At the time of diagnosis, people with AMD generally feel a lack of support to help them overcome the challenges of vision loss.
"We don't want any Canadian to feel like they're facing AMD without support," says Dr. Gordon, "and that's why we developed this program."
EyeConnect is made up of three material components: an easy-to-read AMD Support Guide, called "The Life You Want is Still in Sight" an in-depth website (www.eyeconnectAMD.ca); and a regular, AMD-themed e-newsletter.
In each of those components, readers will access tips and resources on living with AMD, and get to know other people who are experiencing the disease and their families, like 81-year-old Bill Wall.
"I was diagnosed with AMD in 2003 and went, in less than a week, from working and leading a fully independent life, to being almost totally dependent," says Wall. "To suddenly find most of my vision lost almost overnight was devastating. Fortunately, my ophthalmologist referred me to CNIB and, as a result, a whole new world opened up that has started me back on the road to independence."
The EyeConnect Support Guides will be distributed to optometrists, ophthalmologists and retinal specialists across Canada. Over the following year, Canadians who are diagnosed with AMD will receive the guide, linking them to ongoing support and information.
"We're very pleased to be able to offer more services that cater to the specific needs of the AMD patient and their family members," says Dr. Gordon. "We're very proud of this project and how it will impact the lives of so many Canadians."
The EyeConnect AMD program was made possible through an unrestricted educational grant to CNIB from Novartis Canada.
For more information, visit www.eyeconnectAMD.ca, www.cnib.ca or call CNIB directly at 1-800-563-2642.
About CNIB
CNIB provides community-based support, knowledge and a national voice to ensure Canadians who are blind or partially sighted have the confidence, skills and opportunities to fully participate in life. With 900 employees and 10,000 volunteers working out of offices across the country, CNIB serves thousands of Canadians of all ages. To find out more, visit www.cnib.ca or call 1-800-563-2642.
For further information:
Norma Meneguzzi Spall
The Results Group PR
Tel: 416-686-9110 (Bus) or 416-209-1216 (cell)
E: [email protected]
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