Karen’s story: Living well with glaucoma
Every person who connects with Glaucoma NZ has their own story. Karen’s journey reminds us what your support makes possible: reassurance, knowledge and a sense of community for every New Zealander navigating glaucoma.
Receiving a glaucoma diagnosis can be overwhelming. It’s natural to feel uncertain, especially if you’ve never heard much about the condition before, or if you’re navigating it on your own. The questions can feel big. The unknowns, even bigger.
But as many people living with glaucoma will tell you, there is life, clarity and confidence after diagnosis.
Meet Karen
Karen knew glaucoma ran in her family because her father had it. But it wasn’t something she thought much about. That changed after a routine eye test revealed raised eye pressure.
Looking back, she remembers small signs, like bumping her car on the side of her narrow garage, that hinted something wasn’t quite right.
A referral to a specialist followed, and then came the news: “You’re at the early stages of glaucoma.”
“It felt like a lot,” Karen shares. “I didn’t know what to expect. I kept wondering, ‘What does this actually mean for me?’”
Finding her way forward
Rather than panic, Karen began to seek out information.
“I started reading, really reading,” she says. “And what I learned was reassuring. I realised that glaucoma doesn’t define who I am. It’s just something I manage now, like taking drops each day.”
Karen discovered Glaucoma NZ and found comfort in the stories of others going through the same thing.
“I loved reading patient journeys,” she says. “They helped me feel less alone. I could see myself in their stories.”
At every step, empathy made all the difference. “You’re being told something life changing,” Karen says. “The best specialists help you feel safe.”
Six months on, Karen’s life looks much the same. She’s in a solid routine with her treatment and feels confident in managing her eye health.
“Being diagnosed early has been a real bonus,” she says. “It means I’m aware, informed and able to protect my sight.”
Glaucoma hasn’t slowed her down. It’s simply become part of her daily rhythm.
“It doesn’t define who I am. It’s just something I’m learning to live with.”
A gentle reminder
If you or someone you love has recently been diagnosed with glaucoma, know this:
- Early diagnosis is powerful
- You are not alone
- You can live well with glaucoma
- Support is here, and it’s designed for people just like you
Because of you, stories like Karen’s are being written every month. With your continued support, Glaucoma NZ can reach more people who still think glaucoma “won’t happen to them,” helping them find the same confidence and connection Karen has found.
Contact us to share your personal glaucoma journey or donate to help spread awareness through storytelling.