DRIVING for the first time in 18 years was described as an ‘amazing but scary’ experience by Wendy Pepper, who suffers from macular degeneration.
The condition, which causes loss of central vision, affects more than 600,000 people and is the leading cause of sight loss in the UK.
Wendy was put back in the driving seat – of an Aston Martin – having lost her driving licence 18 years previously due to the condition.
Whilst she was helped by instructor James to correct her steering and braking when necessary, she said it was ‘an experience not to be forgotten’.
She was able to use this experience during Macular Week, helping to raise awareness of the condition, when she took part in successful awareness days at Birmingham’s Queen Elizabeth Hospital and Webbs of Wychbold.
The Macular Society Barnt Green Support Group’s next meeting is at 2pm on August 29 at The Parish Centre in Barnt Green (behind St Andrew’s Church).
It will feature a talk by Lynne Hancock from the Citizens Advice Bureau.
Call Wendy on 0121 445 1585 or Alan on 01527 877864 or visit www.macularsociety.org for more details.
There is also a helpline for the condition on 0300 3030 111.
