Carol’s story: navigating glaucoma (and more) in the public system
“You’ve got to stay on top of it”
Carol has lived with glaucoma for more than 14 years. More recently, she was diagnosed with macular degeneration, a separate eye condition that affects central vision. She manages both with treatment like drops for glaucoma, and monthly injections for macular degeneration.
Her weeks are shaped by appointments, eye drops, follow-ups and phone calls. A single visit to the hospital can take up to three hours. Getting there isn’t simple either, especially after injections when her vision is too blurry to drive. There’s no bus from her house to the hospital, so she uses a Grey Power taxi card that brings the fare down to $5. “It’s strict to get, but it makes a difference.”
“Everyone’s lovely at the hospital,” Carol says. “But you’ve got to keep on them.”
For Carol, it’s not about blame. It’s about staying proactive in a system that’s doing its best but can still be stretched.
It’s a practical, patient and positive mindset that shapes how she approaches her care. She writes everything down. Keeps every issue of Eyelights in a clear file. Asks for five numbing drops before her injections. “The first few times I felt it. Now I don’t.”
Carol lives alone and likes to stay independent. That includes holding on to her driver’s licence…just. “I was borderline last time. But I got through.”
She’s not sharing her story to give advice. More to offer reassurance about what’s helped her stay steady. “That’s the bit that’s hard if you’re older or forgetful. But if you can keep records, it helps.”
Carol also supports others through Glaucoma NZ. She’s a SightSaver, donating every month to help make sure others have the support they need to keep their sight.
Becoming a SightSaver is one way to stand alongside people who aren’t as aware, informed, or confident as Carol. As a SightSaver you show them the importance of regular eye appointments, you build their confidence to speak up, and you empower them with knowledge. Especially when appointments are delayed and getting answers takes time.
To join Carol and become a SightSaver, visit glaucoma.org.nz/sightsaver