Questions from a newcomer

[Johanna]

Hi all,

Well, my name is Johanna and I live in Halifax, Nova Scotia. I am 33 years old and I was just diagnosed two days ago. I had never even heard of this condition so I have been busily researching as much as I can. I must admit that I have quite a bit of fear and uncertainty as everything seems so unpredictable. This could not have happened at a worse time in my life. I finally graduated after five years of university with my teaching credentials and was happily looking forward to a fulfilling career after years of working in less than ideal jobs. I am worried about how this condition will affect my future job prospects and even my ability to continue working as a teacher. So far, I am unsure as to my prognosis and unfortunately my optometrist says it could be up to six months before I see a specialist. Both of my eyes are affected, but my left eye is much, much worse. I can read virtually no print with this eye. I am unsure how long it has been this way, because when I am viewing things with both eyes everything looks normal. My right eye tested 20/40 vision so that is promising and hopefully I will retain good vision with this eye for a very long time. Any feedback on what I can expect over the next few years would be helpful. Also, I read somewhere that rigid contact lens can slow the progression. Is this true? I pick up my prescription glasses next week, which I am to wear until my appointment, but should I be wearing contacts for the next six months? One more question: Is there anything I should know about activities which I should or should not be doing? For example, someone told me I should stop going to yoga as the constant bending over puts pressure on the eyes!?!? I am going to Cuba in two weeks and planned on spending a lot of time swimming and snorkeling. Is this okay? Sorry for all of the questions, (they are probably silly), but I just would not want to unknowingly do something to further harm my eyes. My optometrist did not seem to know a whole lot about this condition, and told me it would be better to ask the specialist questions, but it seems like a long time to wait.

Finally, this site has been a great help, so a big thanks to everyone.

Cheers,
Johanna

[Andrew MacLean]

Johanna

Welcome to the forum.

It is good to have a new friend in Canada.

I hope all settles down now and that you find a good career in teaching. Others manage to combine KC and a teaching career.

there is no such thing as a silly question. I'll come back later with my take on the questions you ask.

Meantime, all the best

Andrew