“I was diagnosed with glaucoma about 20 years ago,” Keith says.

“Fortunately, I found out early and it doesn’t affect my daily life. I just have to remember to put my eye drops in every night.”

Glaucoma, the leading cause of irreversible blindness, causes optic nerve damage.

There is currently no cure, but prescription eye drops, laser therapy and surgery can help slow or stop vision loss.

CERA’s researchers are investigating how glaucoma can be better treated.

Just two examples include Professor Keith Martin’s research into gene therapies that aim to protect the optic nerve, and Dr Flora Hui’s research to determine whether vitamin B3 (nicotinamide) can support glaucoma treatments.

Community minded

In March, Keith attended CERA’s community forum to learn about the latest research and treatments being trialled for glaucoma.

“It was also a great chance to talk to others with glaucoma about how they were coping,” he says.

Afterward, Keith recommended that proceeds from local fundraising activities at Carnegie Lions Club and Malvern Theatre Company go to CERA.

Professor Martin says CERA is grateful for their support.

“Community fundraising, alongside individual donations, plays a critical role in enabling us to advance our research.”

Learn more about our community forums and register for our upcoming events.