Seminar: June 17, 2006

The Community House in Hinsdale was crowded on June 17, 2006, when a large group turned out for a free seminar on macular degeneration. Sponsored by Illinois Retina Associates in conjunction with the Macula Vision Research Foundation (MVRF), the meeting was free and open to the public.

Part of a series of presentations the two groups have sponsored, the agenda for this meeting started with Dr. Joseph M. Civantos discussing macular degeneration with an overview of exactly what it is and what it means. Dr. John S. Pollack talked about the newest treatments and research into the condition.

Dr. Civantos took the stage again to talk about the use of vitamin therapy in the treatment of macular degeneration. Mary Scully, manager of senior services at the Blind Service Association, then addressed the group about her own experiences living with macular degeneration. Ms. Scully is also the leader of the support group held monthly at the Blind Service Association in the Loop.

The final speaker was Lea S. Bramnick, Executive Director of MVRF. Ms. Bramnick explained that the mission of MVRF is to fund research into the cause, prevention, treatment, and ultimately the cure for macular degeneration is aided by the fact that one hundred percent of all dollars raised go toward this goal, as the organization is entirely underwritten for all administrative expenses.

In addition to the support group led by Mary Scully, another support group meets in Northbrook at Forty One North Restaurant led by Art Krause. Call 1-866-462-2852 for more information on both groups.