(www.PreserveMacForte.com) A man living in Colne, Lancashire, England, who has wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD), plans to ride his bike to London in a bid to raise funds for research into the eye disease that can lead to vision impairment or even blindness, reported The Lancashire Telegraph.
According to the article, 50-year-old Malcolm Redford; James, his son; and Danny Rowland, their friend will begin the 280-mile bike ride from his home to London in July.
According to the article, Redford has had vision impairment issues since losing much of his sight in his left eye as a result of a training exercise mishap at the age of 22 when he was with the Army.
Three years ago, he was diagnosed with wet AMD, which occurs when abnormal blood vessels form behind the eye and leak blood and other fluid that damages the macula. The eye disease makes it difficult to read books, watch television, drive vehicles and even recognize the faces of family, friends and acquaintances. Only about 10% of people who have dry AMD end up getting the more serious wet AMD.
The article added the Redford is determined not to allow his wet AMD to prevent him from pursuing his love for cycling.
He said in the article that he is “very optimistic about the challenge.” He added that he and his team will ride approximately “70 miles each day.” He added that he plans to put in some regular training before starting the 280-mile trek. Proceeds from the ride will be donated to the Macular Society, according to the article.
According to the article, Redford said that his trek will demonstrate that, while no longer allowed to operate a vehicle, he can still “enjoy riding a bike.” He called himself an “enthusiastic cyclist” and said that cycling is essentially “a neglected way of getting around.”
Previous research has showed that early diagnosis of wet macular degeneration will allow for a wider array of treatment options. However, late diagnosis could lead to irreversible vision impairment. Regular eye exams are critical when it comes to eye health since trained eye doctors will know what to look for.