Discovery Eye Foundation

Discovery helps promote scientific research on eye diseases.

Information received via website and direct mail has always proven to be very helpful. The research that this organization is doing is outstanding. I wish the best of luck

DEF has been raising money to support vision saving research for for over 48 years. It sponsored research has helped patients with keratoconus, many kinds of corneal and retinal diseases. A main focus for the last decade has been seeking treatments for Dry macular degeneration and other retinal diseases including RP. Supported researchers, Drs. Henry Klassen and Jing Yang with great support from CIRM have just completed a Phase 2b FDA clinical trial using retinal progenitor cells to treat human RP. Sponsored researcher Dr. Cristina Kenney is foing ground breaking work on mitochondrial rejuvenation in retinal cell from Age related Macular Degeneration (AMD) patients that could open treatments for Dry AMD patients.

DEF conducts sight-saving research and is well worth supporting. Everyone who works there is so dedicated to eradicating sight-robbing eye disease.

As a person with Keratoconus I rely on the Discovery Eye Research Foundation for the latest information about research, treatment, contact lens, and care all of which are essential to coping with my condition. It also provides a forum to share experiences with other people who have the disease.

Discovery Eye Foundation has supported many projects that are dear to me. Their research on macular degeneration and keratoconus is cutting edge, and has already improved the lives of some of my friends.

Excellent Foundation!
Their dedication and diligent research has changed many lives and will continue to do so.

Discovery Eye Foundation;s useful information on various eye diseases has consistently helped not only myself but my family members as well. I find their website extremely informative and love the good health recipes.

Discovery Eye Foundation and their researchers have made amazing strides in the research that they do. Their website is also very informative and provides lots of information.

The Discovery Fund is an important organization focused on research of eye diseases. In our aging demographic we will all benefit from the research carried out by TDF. The benefit to people in the beginning of their lives, young people, is also life altering.
My husband had shingles very close to his eye. His treatment as researched by TDF alleviated his illness and prevented eye damage. Friends with macular degeneration are benefiting from TDF research as are patients with kerotatonis (sp). This is a forward-looking and well-run organization doing work crucial to the advancements in treatment of eye disease.

Discovery Eye Foundation (DEF) is an excellent choice if you're interested in supporting a nonprofit on the frontline of cutting-edge vision research. Over the years DEF medical professionals and research teams have shown great success advancing vision science across the entire range of inquiry from basic retina research theories to applications that actually help people with serious eye diseases. They are committed to research excellence and have a proven track record of great research achievements, and typically return many times over the value of support invested with targeted scientific results.

They have helped our family through research in macular degeneration.
Their research in mitochondria may save countless lives from terrible diseases.

I have been involved with the Discovery Eye Foundation since its founding over 45 years ago.
It has consistently delivered on its promises to help find new treatments for sight threatening eye diseases, including keratoconus, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, retinitis pigmentosa, retinopathy of prematurity and age related macular degeneration. They have supported cutting edge research in all these fields. One great example--Dr. Henry Klassen at UC Irvine has developed with DEF's support a human retinal stem cell therapy for retinitis pigmentosa that is undergoing an FDA Phase 2b clinical trial. If found effective and safe it will be the first really effective therapy for retinitis pigmentosa. It could also offer therapy for glaucoma and age related macular degeneration in the future.
I have been proud to serve on its Board.

Discovery eye foundation really help general public enrich the knowledge regarding eye diseases. Discoveries from their eye research, the treatments had been improved and more effective years after years. Thank you Discovery Eye Foundation.

The Discovery Eye Foundation has provided me and my family with so much great information about eye health. Their website and social media are wonderful sources for all things eye! I also like that they support research. How are else are we going to find cures and causes?

Discovery Eye Foundation (DEF) has been supporting research on age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and keratoconus (KC) for over forty years. The DEF supported researchers have made tremendous contributions to moving forward our knowledge on what causes these diseases and how to treat them. This foundation really exemplifies how an individual donor can help improve how patients are diagnosed and treated. They do a terrific job!!

As you know, Medicare refuses to pay contact lenses, even if they are deemed medically necessary, even if wearing them is?the only way I can see.

Ween I went to your organization for assistance, I was?told that there is absolutely nothing you can do to helo. Hell, your group refused to even try!

My son was diagnosed with Keratoconus when he was in college. I had never heard of it and there was not much literature on it. I found the Discovery Eye Foundation on the net and was able to educate my son and myself on the condition. The foundation continues to keep us updated on the progress being made and gives up to date information about how to treat the disease. We are very grateful to all associated with this foundation.

I was referred to Discovery Eye Foundation's blog by someone who understood that their information would be helpful to me. I have a family member dealing with macular degeneration, and I was just looking for information and people to talk to. Their staff is incredibly compassionate, resourceful, and informative, and I'm greatly appreciative for all of the help they've provided me with!

The Discovery Eye Foundation supports eye research for blinding eye diseases. Its efforts in keratoconus and macular degeneration eye research make the Discovery Eye Foundation a critical component in progressing against these blinding diseases. These innovative research areas include stem cell retinal regeneration, age related macular degeneration genetics, and corneal transplantation and scarring. The Discovery Eye Foundation's work is vitally important to the understanding of the health of the eye. Its website www.discoveryeye.org is a valuable resource for people dealing with eye disease. This is an exceptional organization which deserves the highest praise and support.

The Discovery Eye foundation is unique amongst non-profits in how many people they help in relation to how many people they are. I have rarely seen any organization where their people are so hard working and have such a deeply rooted personal interest in what they do. Truly a stellar organization with stellar individuals!

I was first referred to Dr. Anthony Nesburn, Medical Director for the DEF, as a result of his expertise, both clinically and in the field of ophthalmic research specific to my medical needs. Continuing as his patient for over forty years, I have been the beneficiary of both his wisdom and compassion. Throughout this time, I've witnessed the unwavering devotion he has demonstrated not only to his own research, but in his support of the research of others through the Foundation.
On a separate note, my family and friends have suffered from the impacts of both AMD and Keratoconus.
The community outreach the Foundation affords those suffering with these serious eye conditions
is so very important.
It has been my privilege to offer financial support for the last several years to an organization accomplishing much in different arenas.

Over the years, 30 to exact, I have watched Discovery Eye Foundation blow the lid off off of so many unsolvable problems! From Keratoconis, to mitochondria genetics, Ocular herpes, Potassium osmosis, and a subject close to my eyeballs, pterigum.

All kidding aside, these researchers are leading scientists who care about everyone.

Do great work. Are starting to produce some very important discoveries that will not only save lives but allow thousands of people such as my father in law to see.

I was a patient of Dr. Anthony Nesburn, when I presented with a challenging corneal problem. His compassion, expertise, conservative approach and overall care were exemplary. I since learned about the foundation he supports, and have been a donor - and passionate fan - ever since, in support of the foundation's good works, Dr. Nesburn's selfless service, and their goals.

In my professional life, I am CEO of a non profit organization - and I've served in similar capacities for over 30 years. The Discovery Eye Foundation is an incredible organization, from all perspectives.

NKCF has helped me gain insight to my son's keratoconus. I rely on it to keep me updated among other sources.

The National Keratoconus Foundation Newsletter has been a hugely helpful resource for us in keeping informed about developments in the study and treatment of Keratoconus.

I was diagnosed with keratoconus over 10 years ago. Every year my condition worsened, and my ophthalmologist did her best to fit me in new contacts each year. It has been a struggle, and I eventually could no longer drive at night at the age of 48. The DEF newsletter helped me be informed about this condition and about the corneal crosslinking (CXL) study. This information was so valuable to me as I knew very little about keratoconus, how it was treated, and the status of the study. Because of my age, I wasn't a candidate for the (CXL) study until last year. I had the procedure completed in both of my eyes 6 months apart from each other. Being part of the study took lots of time, patience, and many appointments; not to mention having to live and not being able to drive without my medically necessary contacts for several weeks before and during recovery. But because I was better informed, I felt confident that the CXL procedure was the right choice for me at that point in my life.

DEF has provided me with valuable and timely information about treatment options, lifestyle adaptions, dietary suggestions, and more over the course of the 15+ years I have had AMD. It has helped make an informed patient who can interact intelligently with my doctor about my condition. I have achieved a good perspective and much peace of mind about having AMD largely thanks to DEF.

I have Keratoconus and we need advocates working for us to find a cure to this condition. The monthly newsletter is helpful. In particular information about the research.

I am very grateful to Macular Degeneration Partnership , which allows to not feel lonely people with wet AMD.
Patients are always interested if there are new treatments of their illness. I do not live in the U.S. and I can not take part in various activities organized for patients. But Macular Degeneration Partnership helps us to keep abreast of new research in the field of treatment of wet AMD, eliminating the need to look for this information on different sites on the Internet . It also helps not to tire the eyes and save some vision. And the stories of those who do not give the disease , moral support . Thank you again !

I learned that I have dry macular degenerative disease almost 3years ago. I was told not to worry. The a year later my sight in my right eye became wavy, went back to my eye doctor. He referred me to a specialist . After an exam was told to either get a sho in eye or be blind in a couple of days. Took the shot, that night I had twitching on right side if my face. Did not go back. Found website for age related macular degenerative and have learned a lot more. Learned that there are different forms of dry. Learned that there is a chart to use. Had to request for one from , eye doc. Tried to tell me I didn't need one. I rely on this organization for lots of info.

I have been attending the monthly meetings the Macular Degeneration Partnership gives at my local Senior Center for the last 4 months. I was diagnosed with AMD two years ago and then Wet AMD in my left eye four months ago. These meetings have been life changing as they have enabled me to understand the condition better and to have a more positive attitude toward it. I have received an unbelievable amount of helpful information as well as having the opportunity to meet other people with AMD and share our experiences. The guest speakers have also been very helpful.

Thank you Macular Degeneration Partnership and Discovery Eye Foundation for making such a difference in my life.

I have had macular degeneration for some time now and the Macular Degeneration Partnership has always kept me informed about the latest treatments and what the results are, which gives me hope that I might be able to use a different treatment other than the shots that I get now directly in the eye. They are costly and very uncomfortable, I don't like them at all but at least it has slowed the disease for now.

Discovery Eye Foundation fills many roles to those of us with eye problems. We use the website for information from the Macular Degeneration Partnership since my Mother suffers from this debilitating disease. We have so many eye issues in my family from ambliopia, to eye sockets that are not even that it is truly a blessing to find so much information on one website. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

Brenda Jackson

The Macular Degeneration Partnership continually gives good information and help. I have been battling wet AMD in my right eye for 8 years and it is now beginning in the left one. I live in France and have the good fortune to have a specialist here who keeps it under control. Because this is inherited in my case, my 2 sisters are also readers of the MD Partnership site, and it gives all of us good guidance. We are very grateful!

I live in France. The Macular Degeneration Partnership has been a life saver for me! The modest contributions I have been able to make, qualify me only as a very small donor; but my gratitude to this association is huge! They gave me support, information and good advice every time I needed them, helping me overcome very difficult periods in the course of this cruel illness. And very importantly, they made me feel like I had not only qualified, sympathetic and readily available advisors, but also good friends overseas! The mere thought that they are there, just an email away, is very, very comforting. I AM glad of this opportunity to express publicly my immense gratitude!

Monique van de Stadt-Kamber

I am a huge fan of the Macular Degeneration Partnership. I am a biologist and have learned much about Dry Macular Degeneration, which my father has. Thanks for your cutting edge research and clinical trials. Keep up the good work!

I especially appreciate the information provided by the Macular Degeneration Foundation about the latest research on treatments. I cope with the loss of vision caused by Wet Macular Degeneration and have had a total of 88 injections in both eyes since 2005. The knowledge that my children and grandchildren will be affected by this condition is very sad to know. I am grateful that there is hope for them - thanks to the information that I receive from the Macular Degeneration Foundation.

I have been diagnosed with dry Macular Degeneration. My father and grandparents all suffered from the disease and went blind. Thanks to the Macular Degeneration Partnership and the great information that is emailed to me from AMD.org, I am learning more and more about the disease and keeping informed as to things in the pipeline. Thank you for your help!

My father has macular degeneration. I a grateful for the services provided by Discovery Eye Foundation. I always check your email newsletter as soon as it arrives.

I am grateful for the Macular Degeneration Partnership. I depend upon it to keep me up to date with the latest developments in the field. Otherwise I would be lost for reliable and useful information. Again, I am most appreciative of this service.

I was diagnosed with wet & dry macular degeneration two years ago and was devastated I do have sight loss in the eye with wet, because of the cost i was afraid we would have to choose between loosing our home or my eyesight because of your connection with Macular degeneration partnership i receive $ to help with my co pay and have regained some loss in that eye I sincerely want to thank you and your donors for all the help you have helped someone who really needs it and is grateful beyond belief Evelyn

I was diagnosed with macular degeneration at 45. It has been a very scary and life changing diagnosis. At present my eyesight is stable, but by reading articles provided by Macular Degeneration Partnership, I believe I will have better information when I need to make treatment choices in the future. Macular degneration doesn't run in my family, and I have lived a healthy lifestyle, so my risk factors for getting this were low. Never thought I would be dealing with this at my age. Grateful for any information that can help me understand and come to terms with these cards I have been dealt.

Having AMD myself along with several family members and friends, I'm really thankful we have DEF to keep us up to date on the latest information regarding this awful condition of the eye.

I DISCOVERED I HAD MACULAR DEGENERATION ABOUT 2 YRS. AGO. I HAVE HAD SHOTS IN BOTH EYES. I've BEEN ON DIALYSIS FOR 214 YRS. & I'll TAKE THAT ANY DAY TOTHIS PROBLEMATIC EYESIGHT:) I TAKE pRESERVISION & I APPRECIATETHE COUPONS!!

As an Ophthalmologist dealing with patients with Keratoconus, I cannot emphasize enough how much the discovery eye foundation has been helping these patients in ways complementing their medical and surgical treatment thereby obtaining better outcomes both in the patients' function and in their quality of life

In the early days of my KC diagnosis, before the KC stabilized, the regular NKCF newsletters/forum provided much needed information and support. Discovery Eye Foundation/NKCF provide a valuable and much need resource for a disease that does not get as much visibility as other more obvious and prevalent conditions. KUDOS!!!

As a person diagnosed with KC, the NKCF forum on their websitea allowed me to read what others with KC have gone through and are experiencing as well as learn about advances in treatments for this condition.

NKCF is a wonderful part of this non-profit. I applaud this organization's ability to reach patients with this condition who can not find eye doctors with the skills needed to help them see. I just finished fitting a young adult who found me through NKCF. This patient can now see well enough to drive with an unrestricted license; a world of difference for this young parent who works full-time! I look forward to the continued efforts made on patients' behalf by NKCF, especially the work with insurance companies and corresponding legislation to try to get this affordable care covered that allows working adults to remain productive and provide for their families.

Hi friends,
I'm Danny prem from India. I'm really happy to have link with this organisation as I live with keratoconus with more than 6 years in a country with less knowledge about the disease and NKCF's newsletter helped to know more about my problem and also boosted my confidence to face this world.. thanks for giving a hope for new life

The NKCF Discovery Eye Foudation is a very practical way to get tons of information about keratoconus.
The monthly newsletter presents the latest development for treatment alternatives. It's also possible to get in touch with other people diagnosed with keratoconus to learn about their experience with different treatments. Overall very pleased with the work of the NKCF Discovery Eye Foudation.

I was told I had kertaconsis in 1990 wen i was 26 and i had 3 small children under 6. It was the most devastating you I can't at the age of 26. A full time working mom wife. The doctor told me the name of the disease I went home and read up on the disease that I had. I recall being scared and ASHAMED aashaking t

This foundation (NKCF) has provided me great information and support. Keratoconus is not a well known condition, it is mostly misdiagnosed. Thanks to this foundation its information is disseminated to patients, families and even ophtalmologists!!! It also provides great service updating the latest research and treatments through the website and newsletter; promotes corneal donation, seminars, research and great support to patients by sharing common experiences. I am very thankful to NKCF. It has been very helpful to us!

I have had keratoconus for more than 30 years. This Foundation provides a great service by disseminating the latest information on treatment and research for this eye disorder through its Website and newsletter. The Foundation also offers a discussion board for patients to be able to ask questions, share information, and find support from others with similar experiences. It is a much needed resource for information and support.

When I was first diagnosed with Keratoconus, after having received several misdiagnoses, I went to the Internet to do research. My most positive experience has been with the NKCF, whose website and newsletters have been truly useful and informational. I was particularly impressed when I announced to the newsletter that I would be having a corneal transplant. I received immediately from Cathy Warren a booklet concerning the whole procedure, including factors which my surgeon didn't think to tell me. I was touched and pleased with her prompt response. The procedure went as described, and now I see well enough to drive with glasses.

Hi My name is Antonio Mendoza, 46 old, I live in Mexico (sorry for my English) I have Keratoconous for +20 years.The reason for typing this message is because I want to share my experience trying to control it. In my case, I have periods with critical sensations in my both eyes. In that moment It has been greatful to use soda can soda cold direct to my eye for a short moments. also I have access to traditional Mexican herbal medicine and with some herbals I have the possiblity to manage my eyes when I have crisis.It has been helpful for me because I have the possibility to stabilize the keratoconus. I share this info in order to help others and also try to give some ideas for making new studies. Regards. Antonio [email protected]

My name is Sandy. I am a 52 year old female. My mother has AMD and she is 86 years old. She is blind. I thought I too had AMD. I started having vision changes in my left eye this past summer. I felt dizzy and nauseated. I also had a migraine headache the day my vision changed. I noticed that my left eye had a gray spot in the center of my vision and words I tried to read were wavy. I also noticed that doorways and window frames were wavy. It was like being in a fun house with those crazy mirrors. The scariest thing was when I closed my right eye and looked in the mirror. It looked like my face was dropping or melting on the right side. I looked like a monster. I went to see a doctor at University of Michigan. He didn't think I had AMD, but diagnosed me with Chronic Serous Chorio Retinopathy. I had laser surgery done. It helped improve my vision only for about a month. It is bad again. I am scared that I will lose my sight in both eyes. I wonder if I too really have AMD like my mother.

I am only 61 and have been dealing with wet Amd for two years. I called Discovery Eye Foundation and was able to speak with Judy Delgado the very same day. She listened and was able to confirm that the course of treatment my doctor is using is standard protocol. She also gave me the name of a doctor at Casey Eye Institute who would be a good physician should I choose to get a second opinion. After the conversation, I felt very reassured. It has been difficult dealing with this disease at such a young age. It was so nice to talk to a knowledgable person who showed compassion. They are providing a great service.

When I was diagnosed with Keratconus the foundation provided me with the information I needed to really understand what was going on with my vision. Hearing from others has been a great source of support for me. i feel so much more well equiped to deal with this eye disease with thier help.

DISCOVERY EYE FOUNDATION is a great non profit organization.

My father is almost blind from Macular Degeneration. Recently I have found out that his sister is also showing symptoms, and I also have beginning signs of developing AMD. This organzation has become a valuable resource for me, to get the information I need to keep my own vision healthy, and to understand the implications of having AMD. Through this organization, I have been able to participate in research regarding the genetic factor in AMD, which is important to me since it clearly runs in my family. I feel very fortunate to have this wonderful resource to help me and my family!

I have been diagnosed with Keratoconus for 41 years. As new developments and proceedures have recently emerged, the NKCF website has been a saving grace. I am currently 61 and through the interchange of others with KC and physicians and contact fitters in the field, I am able to discern what treatments have been successful as well as others who have have similar side effects to new contact lenses.

AMD provides the latest research and care information for macular degeneration with timely emails and newsletters. When I've asked a more specific question of the director, Judith Delgado, I get a very prompt, informative, caring response. I've been helped a great deal to handle the AMD diagnosis in my life by this group, and have recommended them to others over the years.

Thank you to NKCF for their great newsletter and website. Being a Keracatonous patient I have learned that there are not very many resources, and their website/newsletter gives me the resources and research results are extremely helpful to me.

My husband has had keratoconus for 25+ years and the National Keratoconus Foundation has kept him informed over the years. Their sample insurance letter helped get him medical reimbursement for his expensive hard/Rose K contacts ... probably common these days, but the NKCF lead the way to getting this much needed financial assistance.

I find the National Keratoconus Foundation a great organization. They help people finding professionals that can help them manage their disease through contact lenses and other options. They keep up to date on research, and act as a clearing house of information for their clients. They have very helpful booklets that are in plain language on Keratoconus and Corneal Grafts that I give out to my new patients who have this disease. Although I discuss these options with my patients, I find it very helpful to have a booklet that also has these options in writing that they can refer back to. They are also great booklets for family, and friends so that they too can understand what Keratoconus is all about. They publish newsletters, and maintain a great chat site. They also hold seminars. Their administrator is excellent and very dedicated. I personally find the chat site interesting. It has given me a lot of insight into how patients assimilate the information they are given and what questions they often have, and in what areas there is often confusion.

I have a family member with macular degeneration and as so, am at risk for developing it as well. The information on this website has been extremely helpful for my family so far. I would recommend that anyone who has the disease or wants to know more information about it visit the website. As they are a resource for people with diminished vision, they thoughtfully publish everything in larger font sizes.

When my son was diagnosed with Keratoconus his grades had already been failing in school and he was frustrated that over the course of a year spent going to eye doctors we couldn't find a contact that he could either see through or that stayed in his eyes! That is when I turned to The National Keratoconus Foundation, a program of The Discovery Eye Foundation website for help. Within a day we received a list of eye Doctors in our state who are affiliated with NKCF. These Doctors understood that disease and the issues of good sight correction. After One Doctor visit my son had a pair of contacts he not only could wear but could see well with too! Now each month when we get a newsletter update we both read the articles and discuss the information. It has made dealing with the disease easier now that we are better informed. Thank you NKCF for your life changing help with this complicated and not well understood disease.

As a doctor of optometry specialiIng in keratoconus, i rely heavily on the national keratoconus foundation to support and educate my patients throughh all aspects of this disease. I remember practicing before nkcf was in existence and its presence and service to the public and those with the disease is of immeasureable importance. Thankyou cathy warren and the whole national keratoconus foundation organization.

I knew nothing about keratoconus (KC) when I was diagnosed. I was frightened and worried about my future. When I found NKCF online, it was such a relief. I was not alone! There were doctors who were ecperienced with this condition; there were patients like myself who really, truly knew what I was going through. It was a tremendous support. Their day-long seminar at the Skirball was very informative, and a chance to meet other KC patients in person. When it came time for my first cornea transplant, NKCF was there, too. Their booklet about cornea transplants was extremely helpful in my planning and knowing what to expect. And it was free! Although my transplanted corneas are healthy now, I still visit the NKCF and support them with my participation on the chat board and monetary donation. This organization is suberb, and has made a huge difference in my life with KC!

I tell all my keratoconus patients about NKCF. It is the first place I send them for reliable and up to date information on their condition.

The Discovery Eye Foundation is a highly respected organization in the field of eye care. As director of MD Support, I am proud to have been partnered with Macular Degeneration Partnership, a division of Discovery, for over 10 years. Thousands of patients have received considerable benefits from this outreach under the caring and knowledgeable guidance of director Judi Delgado. Discovery Eye Foundation and MD Partnership get my highest recommendation as one of the nation's top nonprofits!

This organization provide a badly needed informational service to people suffering from keratoconus. This disease is fairly rare and thus it can be very difficult to get timely and accurate information about it. Thank you. Bill Simkins

The first time I heard about the NKCF/DEF was almost 20 years ago. I was feeling a little down and felt sorry for myself because of my keratoconus. It was so comforting to read other people stories and feel that I’m not alone. I’ve been receiving the quarterly newsletter for many years and keeping up-tp-date with the latest discoveries in the KC treatment. Because of the DEF information, I was more informed patient, asking my doctor and optometrist questions and getting more information and answers to be able to get the best treatment for me.

I am very thankful for the information that Discovery Eye Foundation distributes to the KC community. I have learned valuable information that helps me take better care of my eyes and stay informed on the latest research and surgeries. They do a great job disseminating information!

Hello, I have been a user on the Discovery Eye Foundation website and newsletter for many years. About 12 years ago I was diagnosed with myopic degeneration in both eyes resulting in scarring on the macula and bleeding. I fortunately am in the great care of an east coast eye speciality hospital. I have to give credit to the wonderful physicians who have treated me over the years for saving my eyesight. Although, I do not have perfect 20/20 vision even with correction and have had double cataract surgery as well, I can function well in my ADLs and work full time. I am extremely grateful for all of this. I read the AMD Updates regularly and it has provided me with excellent information that helps me to have meaningful conversations with my physicians. It keeps me up to date on the latest vision research and provides me with resources in which I benefit. I have recommended this newsletter to family and friends who also have to cope with vision disorders. Thank you.

Discovery Eye Foundation brought me a great deal of knowledge at a time of great fear for my future well being. The knowledge was an excellent pacifier for those fears, since understanding relieves the apprehension of ignorance. They have, and continue to this day, to provide a great deal of continuing knowledge concerning my condition, which is keratoconus.

I was diagnosed with wet AMD several years ago. In researching this problem I came across the Discovery Eye Foundation site and it has been a big help to me ever since. Good information, response to E-mails and questions, personal attention when needed. I have recommended the site to several people who also suffer from AMD. Thank you!

Discovery Eye Foundation has helped me in many ways since I was diagnosed with AMD. In a time of great fear, it gave me comfort. I was supplied with the latest research along with the available aids & nutrition to help in my fight against this disabling disease. I am very appreciative for this organization.

The charity has provided a newsletter which always I look forward to receiving. They keep the world of those who suffer from this condition updated on possible treatment options. They post details about research and have a fantastic support and awareness function. Great company, made a difference in my life.

After receiving my yearly reminder card from my Ophthalmologist's office, I made an appointment and went in for my eye exam. During the exam I was unable to see the chart from my left eye due to a large black area. He immediately had me go to a specialist to confirm his concerns and I was told that I had Wet Macular Degeneration. After receiving some informational materials from my doctor, I went home and immediately look for more information on the internet. I found AMD.org, was impressed my the information that was available to me and registered to receive their newsletter. It has been important and helpful to me to have a better understanding of Wet Macular Degeneration.

I was diagnosed with keratoconus thirty years ago. As a result my eyesight problems have gradually worsened over the years, and despite ongoing development of new rigid contact lens, my eyes have suffered repeated corneal scratches and injuries, to the point where cornea transplants seemed inevitable. The problem is sufficiently unusual and rare that even my wife did not have any real understanding of KC. Fortunately, my corneal specialists are on the leading edge of medical advances and after decades of trying new lenses, my latest scleral lenses have been injury free, and I learned about NKCF from their office. Since then, my wife and I attended a half-day program in Chicago presented by NKCF for patients and family members. One of the featured speakers was one of my doctors. Everyone who spoke helped my wife to better understand my condition, and increased my knowledge and perspective on my own condition. Patients attended from three or four states, some of spent hours travelling to the program. NKCF also has an email list of patients and professionals exchanging information to help each other. Recently, from there I learned of a new keratoconus lens available in Europe and patients' experience using it. This is another encouraging benefit of NKCF. Now I have reasons to hope that I will never need corneal transplants. NKCF has helped me improve my quality of life and hope for future years of stable and possibly improved vision. Too many people take eyesight for granted.

Being diagnosed with macular degeneration is both frightening and overwhelming. A source of current information relating to this condition is extremely important to someone trying to cope with the potential for loss of vision. Discovery Eye Foundation has become that trusted source of information for me. I sincerely appreciate the frequent updates from Discovery Eye Foundation that are conveniently delivered via email. They do an excellent job of presenting the latest information on research studies and therapies in an easy to understand format.

I can't even remember where I learned about the AMD website, but I think it was in a magazine or from another website. I went to check it out because my mother and my oldest sister both have MD. I have really gotten a lot of information from their articles and they even sent me a chart to keep on my refrigerator to check my eyes with and that gives me security in knowing that I will catch it early if I develop it also. I am watching their research now to decide what the best vitamin will turn out to be. It's great to have so much information in one place that is keeping up with the latest information. Maybe I will be lucky and not have to go through what my mother and sister are doing. I know that they are very helpful now, and with any luck they will be life-changing for me and my other siblings and our children and grandchildren.

When I was diagnosed with Wet AMD in June 2011, I was crushed and afraid. AMD.org was a huge help in assisting me in understanding what I was going through, what to expect, and how to help my eyes retain the health they did have. I also found that I'm not alone, there are many others like me who also benefit from AMD.org.

With this organization's newsletter I found a new hybrid contact that has essentially granted me 20/20 vision. I had no idea that I was seeing so poorly with glasses until I was fitted with this medical device. It actually won medical device of the year 2009 against even prosthetic devices. It's a miracle!

When my mother was diagnosed with Macular Degeneration we were both very frightened. We knew so little about the disease and what she was going to face. The Discovery Eye Foundation has provided a wealth of information and support over the years. Mom can't read information on a computer anymore so I receive the monthly newsletter and read it faithfully before printing it off in large font for mom. It's given her direction on what questions to ask her eye doctor, warned her about a prescription that was tainted and advised her what to do to help. It's informed me about lifestyle changes my daughter and I can do to help decrease the odds of us getting the disease. Thank you.

I live in Ontario, Canada & have received the emails from Discovery Eye Foundation since I was diagnosed with ARMD & have been encouraged by the research information & general eye care information I have received. Not only do I have the benefit of first class research information but I share with others as I am a volunteer with our local CNIB (Canadian National Institute for the Blind). Thank you for this service. Meg Slater.

The ongoing up-to-date online information provided by Discovery Eye Foundation has greatly assisted me as a patient treated for AMD. Additionally, I have helped to disseminate the findings of research reports as well as the importance of early detection. Therefore, the organization has made it possible to impact a wider group of high-risk individuals.

The charity that I'm writing to you about is the National Keratoconus Foundation. My name is Dan Rinaldi and I never realized that there was a couple of procedures out there to help me, until I came across this website. I'm a Providence, RI firefighter and I'm the type of person that you'd have on a website as far as testimonials, because I've had a lot of exposure as a firefighter and it would give any non-profit audience of over a million career and volunteer firefighters around the country. I'm also an amateur competitive cook. I was voted the best firefighter cook in America from 2002-2004 by Tabasco and the Food Network. I've been on the Food Network several times as well as: The Rossie O'Donnell Show, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Live with Regis&Kelly and the Today Show. I've also received 13 department medals with the Providence Fire Department, one of the busiest fire departments in the country, for rescues that I've made. I was also a member of FEMA's Urban Search And Rescue Task Force out of this region(MATF-1), but I had to resign due to my condition. We could be deployed anywhere in the world at any time and having an eye disability wasn't safe for me or the rest of the task force. It's kind of like having a Navy SEAL with one good eye, it just doesn't happen. I'm only 43 and I didn't want to retire from the job that I've committed my life to. That's where this website came in and I've had it's links put on a bunch of firefighter websites. I've gone through with the surgery for my condition since seeing and education myself with this site. I'm happy to say that I had my one month follow up visit this week and my vision went from continually deterioration to not only being stabilized, but actually reversing. My vision started out at 20/400 and I'm now at 20/100 and I still have eleven months of healing with continued improvements expected. I put a couple of website links below so that you can see the real impact this site has had on me as well as the people that I will continue to save for the next 18 years on the fire department. http://www.wpri.com/dpp/on_air/street_stories/street-stories-providence-firefighter-keratoconus-dan-rinaldi-recipe-winner http://www.wpri.com/dpp/on_air/street_stories/street-stories-update-recipe-for-cure-for-firefighter

Our son was diagnosed with keratoconus in June of 2011. We had never even heard of this condition before. The National Keratoconus Foundation was an essential tool in learning about this disease, researching options for our son, and providing him with the best possible care.

My husband has an eye disease that is not common so we have a hard time finding information or specialists. Through DEF we have received email newsletters about conferences near us and where we can find specialists. It has been wonderful. The newsletters also include tips on daily life with a particular disease which we really like.

I was diagnosed with keratoconus in my late 20's after visiting numerous optometrist who informed me I had severe astigmatism. It was only after visiting an opthamologist who diagnosed me with keratoconus. Since then I have been wearing RGP lenses and have had pretty good success. My plan is to have Intacs and the vitamin treatment to strengthen my cornea. The NKCF has been invaluable with information in regards to my condition; I feel I am not alone and this is a comfort in itself. Thank you.

The Discovery Eye Foundation has been a great resource for learning more about a condition I have - Macular Degeneration. My daughter signed me up to attend a Vision Seminar conducted at the UC Irvine Campus. It was very informative, and we obtained additional valuable resources that assists me to see things better. I am very greatful for the extensive research they share with all of us, and I enjoy receiving their newsletter keeping me abreast of new information they have discovered in their research.

The Discovery Eye Foundation and provided up to date information on Macular Degeneration. By subscribing to the emails they distribute regularly I have been able to build hope that preventative progression of the disease may be in the near future. With my being at risk for both Glaucoma and having dry MD in both eyes I depend on these updates and health advisories to maintain and healthy lifestyle and preserve my vision as long as possible.

The Discovery Eye Foundation has helped me to understand what Keratoconus is and how to deal with the affects on my vision. The seminars are a great way to find out about new research and procedures that are available. They will also help you find trial programs with support groups. The information is always true and reliable. You can trust this foundation.

Discovery Eye Foundation has been a reliable source for information about my disease, the things I can do as part of the treatment to address the problem and, the latest medical research in treatment advancements.

I don't know of any foundation that gives such great support, assistance and accurate information, and does it so kindly and so promptly. I am an AMD patient and the DISCOVERY EYE FOUNDATION has my unconditional gratitude.They are my prime source of comfort, advice and up to date information. I do thank them from the bottom of my heart. I hope that they will always get all the support that they need and deserve, and be able to continue to assist the visually handicapped in their very own wonderful way.

My wife has macular degeneration and she really appreciates the symposiums that are sponsored by the Discovery Eye Foundation. She has learned much from them and finds them very useful.

I have been receiving useful info from DEF for many years now. They review recent research on treatment and provide helpful general advice for individuals and family members trying to live comfortably with serious vision problems. They have also responded to individual requests for information and/or help in a timely and supportive manner.

In a world where we are constantly exposed to large foundations with a lot of support and active members in the community focused toward the foundation the nkcf continues to shine through. This non profit exists to educate and move forward with innovative ways to prevent, cure and help those with the condition. When I was diagnosed with the condition this website was my first educational exposure. Although it is such a rare disease the foundation thrives to change the rare case and often the overlooked patient. For its size the foundation has gathered a large population of followers, but would be a perfect candidate for an award - it has been life changing for me. This is true especially because since it is so rare I beleieved that there was no one out there who could understand the struggle with the condition. Nkcf helped to connect me with others and has been so inspiring to me personally that I have set up a sponsorship with the foundation to raise awareness in my community and accept donations as a sponsorted triathlete of nkcf. I have pledged to donate $1500 and when I participate in ironman rhode island (a 70 mile triathlon) I will know that I'm not running for myself, I'm running for everyone with the experience of a keratoconus diagnosis... and that's all because of this foundation! Thank you nkcf!

I have found the Voundation to be an invaluable ally in my quest to provide information to patients dealing with KC. I regularly refer them to the website as THE most up-to-date source of information available. I have been very grateful for the referrals I have received as well. Randy J. Esptein, MD

Tell your story here and help others understand this charity When I was diagnosed with Keratoconus a year ago, I researched and found this great organization that gave me all the support and information I needed to continue to live a normal life. They continue to give as much information as they can to continue my understanding of the disease including new research methods, tips, and ideas of how to cope with this disease.

When I was first diagnosed with Keratoconus 14 years ago, I've never heard of the disease. My eye doctor gave me the NKCF booklet and I logged onto their website. The newsletters have been very informative and the KC link has served as a helpful resource—many of my questions were answered by people who have experienced my situation. In fact, when I had my transplant 2 years ago, I was able to compare notes with someone who's surgery was days before. We created our own little support group... something that wouldn't have happened without the KC link.

Since then I have had the opportunity to interact with many people seeking support and offering support to those with keratoconus. I have had the opportunity to learn and educate; to build relationships and to publish. Much of this would not have been possible without the broad base and input that the worldwide fellowship sponsored by the NKCF provided. The power of the NKCF is multiplied by an inestimable factor when the number of other support sites quoting and linkiing the NKCF site is appreciated.

When I was diagnosed with Keratoconus in 1998, I never heard of keratoconus before and had no idea what it was. Searching in the internet I found the NKCF. They not only answered my questions and concerns, but with the letter they send to my insurance I was able to obtain approval for payments of the office visits, treatment and contact lenses.Their newsletters keep me inform of the newest treatments and technological advances to treat keratoconus. which in turn i discussed with my doctor. The last contact lenses I made are using one of those cushion lenses and they are much more comfortable in addition to reduced the scars I had on one of my eyes while improving my vision.

When first diagnosed with keratoconus in 2003, I was scared and didn't know where to turn. Would my work possibilities dwindle? Could I drive at night? Would I lose my sight? NKCF provided comfort, resources, and hope. The newsletters and message boards provide everything from moral support to practical support (the best sunglasses for KC patients, ways to explain KC to others, travel for RGP lens wearers). I found my first KC specialist through NKCF and when my health coverage changed, they were there to help me locate a replacement. When I needed a letter that explained KC to my insurer, they were there. NKCF is professional and dedicated to our little-known diseases. I can't recommend them too highly.

I am 23, and was diagnosed at age 17 with Keratoconus, a degenerative disease of the cornea which causes poor vision and makes vision correction with glasses and contacts very difficult. It is the number one reason people have cornea transplants in the United States. At the time when I was diagnosed the optometrist knew very little about my disease (occurs in 1 out of 2,000 people) and made me scared. The first thing I did was go home and look up the disease and I found the website for this organization. They were and continue to be the best resource for people like myself looking for resources, information, and support. This past weekend, (June 2010) I attended a conference hosted by Discovery Eye and National Keratoconus Foundation. The conference was free to attend and had many of the top doctors in the world, speak. After six years of living in fear that I would not have option as my disease gets worse, I am finally at peace. I now know what my options are and what is currently in the research stage. I was also able to meet (for the first time) other people who have KC, which was amazing. Something else worth noting is the email discussion forum hosted via this organization. Patients are able to communicate with other people who have KC as they search for answers. This provides a great sense of community and is an amazing resource. I cannot express how thankful I am for this service alone. I highly recommend the National Keratoconus Foundation to all. *Please forgive any errors in this review. It is not easy for me to see the computer screen clearly.

I have had keratoconos for nearly 50 years and this organization has been a godsend for information, counsel and direction as my deseace has progressed. After a corneal transplant I found their literature to be the most complete and easiest to access and use that existed. Their research into a range of eye issues seems to be at the forefront of progress for these conditions and there ratio of operating expenses to proper use of their funds seems to be very high.