Retinal Realities

Welcome to this episode of the podcast “Through the Looking Glass: Unveiling Low Vision with an Optometry Expert 17 – 23 March is World Optometry Week, with the 23rd being World Optometry Day, the focus is on recognising the contributions of optometrists. In today’s enlightening episode, we have the privilege of hosting Hazel Sacharowitz, a distinguished Optometrist from the Low Vision Care Centre. Hazel has over 35 years of experience in the field of low vision including lecturing and training of the Optometry students at the University of Johannesburg. She is well known and respected in her field and has presented at numerous local and international conferences. She is a Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry and remains passionate about low vision. Tune in, listen, and let’s explore the world of low vision together. Remember, you’re not alone—we’re here to support you! Contact Retina South Africa on 0860 59 59 59 or visit our website at www.retinasa.org.za. This podcast is supported by Roche Products (Pty) Ltd. Podcast Disclaimer: Any information, either audio or visual, contained on this Podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical doctors, and you should always contact your physician or other qualified health care professional for any medical advice you need. The views expressed in this podcast do not reflect the views of Retina South Africa or any of our sponsors.

Today is World Diabetes Day and on the Retinal Realities Podcast, we have a special guest: Gavin van Wyk. Gavin is a SA Diabetes Advocate and a Retina SA Patient Advocate who has been living with Type 1 Diabetes for 35 years. He has experienced many challenges due to his diabetes, such as losing a lower limb and having low vision from Diabetic Retinopathy. Gavin is now a volunteer for Retina SA and SweetLife, where he helps other people with diabetes and vision loss. He was a pharmacist assistant at Clicks before he had to retire for medical reasons. He resides in Welkom, Free State with his wife Liza-Marie, who is his pillar of support. Join Karen and Claudette as they talk to Gavin about his inspiring story of coping with Diabetes and Vision Loss on this podcast. To find out more about Diabetic Retinopathy, you can read this article: https://sweetlife.org.za/what-is-retinopathy/ Podcast Disclaimer: Any information, either audio or visual, contained on this Podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical doctors, and you should always contact your physician or other qualified health care professional for any medical advice you need. The views expressed in this podcast do not reflect the views of Retina South Africa or any of our sponsors.

In this World Retina Day special edition of the Retinal Realities Podcast, we are honoured to have Claudette, Victoria, and Lindiwe, our dedicated patient advocates. This year’s theme is “Love Your Eyes - Kids: Focusing on Children,” and it’s a call to action we cannot ignore. At Retina South Africa, we’ve observed some concerning trends affecting children’s eye health that could have lasting impacts on their futures. With the explosion of screen time from devices like smartphones, tablets, and computers, the benefits of technology are clear, but so are the risks. Tune in as we explore these vital topics and offer actionable advice to safeguard our children’s vision. Your involvement can significantly impact the eye health of future generations. Don’t miss out! Thank you to Roche Products (Pty) Ltd for sponsoring this wonderful series of Retinal Realities podcasts. Podcast Disclaimer: Any information, either audio or visual, contained on this Podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical doctors, and you should always contact your physician or other qualified health care professional for any medical advice you need. The views expressed in this podcast do not reflect the views of Retina South Africa or any of our sponsors.

“Blind people have dreams as big as sighted people, and if they have the determination and courage to pursue those dreams, why stop them?” – Leanne Hunt Join us in this episode of the Retinal Realities Podcast as we chat with Leanne Hunt, the author of What Every Blind Person Needs You to Know. Leanne shares how her experiences with vision loss inspired her to write this insightful handbook, this handbook is designed to show families, friends and colleagues of the visually impaired how to offer support without being patronising. Leanne is living with Stargardt’s disease, a retinal condition that progressively leads to blindness. She has self-published several books, volunteered at various non-profit organizations, pursued a master’s degree, and written on a wide range of topics. Leanne’s accomplishments are a testament to her resilience and passion. Leanne’s book is available on Amazon at https://www.amazon.com/What-Every-Blind-Person-Needs/dp/1535454504 Thank you to Roche Products (Pty) Ltd for sponsoring this wonderful series of Retinal Realities podcasts. Podcast Disclaimer: Any information, either audio or visual, contained on this Podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical doctors, and you should always contact your physician or other qualified health care professional for any medical advice you need. The views expressed in this podcast do not reflect the views of Retina South Africa or any of our sponsors.

Welcome to today’s episode of our podcast! Retina South Africa is led by a management committee of eight members, including five passionate and strong women dedicated to transforming the lives of countless South Africans affected by retinal disorders. Among these inspiring women is Mariza Jurgens, the Deputy Chair of Retina South Africa, who lives with Cone Rod Dystrophy. Her life and achievements are a testament to her unwavering spirit. On National Women’s Day, August 9th, we applauded Mariza Jurgens for her recent appointment to the World Health Organisation’s advisory group on assistive technology. Mariza has been instrumental in advocating for the South African Revenue Services to make online tax filing accessible to visually impaired individuals. Stay tuned as we delve deeper into Mariza’s journey, her advocacy work, and the incredible impact she continues to make in the lives of many. Thank you to Roche Products (Pty) Ltd for sponsoring this wonderful series of Retinal Realities podcasts. Podcast Disclaimer: Any information, either audio or visual, contained on this Podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical doctors, and you should always contact your physician or other qualified health care professional for any medical advice you need. The views expressed in this podcast do not reflect the views of Retina South Africa or any of our sponsors

Welcome to our special International Yoga Day podcast. Today, we are honoured to share a truly inspiring story of resilience, transformation, and inner strength. Yoga is not just a practice; it is a profound journey of self-discovery and healing. This journey is especially poignant for our guest, a remarkable yoga teacher who has faced the challenges of Retinitis Pigmentosa, a condition that has gradually taken her vision but never her spirit. Through the art and discipline of yoga and mindfulness, she has found a sanctuary of peace, a source of unwavering strength, and a pathway to acceptance and joy. Join us as we delve into her extraordinary journey, exploring how yoga has not only grounded her but also empowered her to embrace life with courage and positivity. Today, we celebrate the transformative power of yoga and the indomitable human spirit, exemplified by our guest Claudette Medefindt's incredible story.

On this Youth Day, Sonya, our Youth Team Leader, hosts Nicholas Dedekind on the Youth Edition of the Retinal Realities Podcast. Nicholas, a 24-year-old male living with Stargardt’s disease, recently graduated with honors in Economics (Cum Laude) from the University of Pretoria. Currently, he works as an intern economist in Johannesburg. Notably, Nicholas achieved a gold medal in the B3 Men’s singles event while representing the South African Invitational Bowls team at this year’s IBD World Championships. Join Retina South Africa for a day of fun and fundraising at our Bowls for Sight Day on the 28 July 2024. For more information about the event, visit our website at https://retinasa.org.za/events/bowls-for-sight/.

Welcome to the latest episode in the Retinal Realities podcast ‘Hope in Trials: A Stargardt’s Patient’s Perspective’. In this episode we explore the remarkable journey of those who dare to participate in groundbreaking medical trials, we delve into a story that embodies courage, uncertainty, and unwavering hope. Our journey begins when Melani Nel received that life-changing call. The one that would lead her to a clinical trial for Stargardt’s disease right here in South Africa. Emotions swirled within her—disbelief, excitement, hesitation. After all, this was uncharted territory. She had never been part of a clinical trial before, and questions loomed: What impact would it have on her physical and mental well-being? What if this trial held the key to restoring her vision? Or what if it amounted to nothing more than a hopeful experiment? The possibilities danced in her mind. At first, a 2-year clinical trial seemed like a very long time, but the months flew by and as she was finishing up with the last tests, she was grateful to have had the opportunity to be part of medical research history. Even though this specific trial didn’t have the outcome she was hoping for, she now knows that there are researchers out there working tirelessly to find a cure for Stargardt’s and several other retinal diseases.   “Medical research isn’t a straight path; it’s a winding journey of discovery, testing, and retesting. And this trial was a beacon—a chance to contribute, to light the way for future generations of young children and teens diagnosed with Stargardt’s.” Thank you to Roche Products (Pty) Ltd for sponsoring this wonderful series of Retinal Realities podcasts. Thank you for tuning in. Remember to like and follow us on Facebook @Retinal Realities and Instagram @retinal_realities_sa or to learn more about Stargardt’s visit our website at www.retinasa.org.za. Podcast Disclaimer: Any information, either audio or visual, contained on this Podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical doctors, and you should always contact your physician or other qualified health care professional for any medical advice you need. The views expressed in this podcast do not reflect the views of Retina South Africa or any of our sponsors

In this episode of the Retinal Realities Podcast we are joined by Sonya Lee Mahabeer who is an admitted attorney who is passionate about ethics, human rights and commercial law, including financial planning law, ESG and legal education. She is a member of Retina South Africa and is on the Youth and Governance Sub Committees. 11-15 September is National Wills Week, an initiative taken by the Law Society of South Africa to create awareness and education about the need to have a last will and testament. A will allows you to designate who will receive your assets and property, and how they will be distributed. It also allows you to name a guardian for any minor children, and to appoint an executor to manage the distribution of your estate. Sonya will be discussing why having a will is an important part of estate planning and is essential for ensuring that your wishes are carried out after you pass away. Thank you to Roche Products (Pty) Ltd for sponsoring this wonderful series of Retinal Realities podcasts. Podcast Disclaimer: Any information, either audio or visual, contained on this Podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical doctors, and you should always contact your physician or other qualified health care professional for any medical advice you need. The views expressed in this podcast do not reflect the views of Retina South Africa or any of our sponsors

In this captivating podcast, we delve into the remarkable journey of Zaheeda Saloojee Jooma, a true embodiment of bravery and determination. Despite being diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa, a condition causing damage to the retina, Zaheeda defied the odds and embarked on a cycling adventure just four weeks ago as she geared up to participate in the Dis-Chem Ride for Sight. For visually impaired individuals like Zaheeda, everyday tasks pose unique challenges, yet she refuses to let her condition hold her back. With George De Goveia as her volunteer pilot on a tandem bicycle, Zaheeda was ready to conquer the ride, putting her trust in someone else’s hands. The feeling of pride, bravery, and facing fears head-on is palpable in Zaheeda’s story. It takes immense courage to step out of one’s comfort zone, especially when relying on another person for guidance. Yet, Zaheeda’s determination speaks volumes about her resilience and spirit. Zaheeda’s story serves as an inspiration to us all, urging us to break barriers and embrace inclusivity in para sports. Let’s join hands in supporting initiatives like the Dis-Chem Ride for Sight which strive to create awareness and opportunities for the visually impaired and blind community. This podcast is supported by Roche Products (Pty) Ltd. Podcast Disclaimer: Any information, either audio or visual, contained on this Podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical doctors, and you should always contact your physician or other qualified health care professional for any medical advice you need. The views expressed in this podcast do not reflect the views of Retina South Africa or any of our sponsors.

World Retina Week is observed during the week of 24-30 September, it is observed in more than 40 countries to create awareness about retinal vision loss. On the podcast today we have two dedicated women who are active members of Retina South Africa, Claudette Medefindt who has a 40-year history and Sonya Lee Mahabeer who has just recently brought her enthusiasm and energy to the organisation. They each share their story on how they became involved in Retina South Africa. Should you have a retinal condition or be a family member of a person who has a retinal condition, or a professional who has an interesting or inspiring story to tell please contact Retina SA via our e-mail at headoffice@retinasa.org.za. This podcast is supported by Roche Products (Pty) Ltd. Podcast Disclaimer: Any information, either audio or visual, contained on this Podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical doctors, and you should always contact your physician or other qualified health care professional for any medical advice you need. The views expressed in this podcast do not reflect the views of Retina South Africa or any of our sponsors.

World Retina Week is observed during the week of 24-30 September, it is observed in more than 40 countries to create awareness about retinal vision loss. On the podcast today we have two dedicated women who are active members of Retina South Africa, Claudette Medefindt who has a 40-year history and Sonya Lee Mahabeer who has just recently brought her enthusiasm and energy to the organisation. They each share their story on how they became involved in Retina South Africa. Thank you to Roche Products for sponsoring this wonderful series of Retinal Realities podcasts. For more information on retinal vision loss and the services offered by Retina South Africa follow us on: Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/retinasouthafrica⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/retina-south-africa⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC54Y69fvfcCrsI8WIlFylIQ⁠ Facebook: ⁠http://www.facebook.co.za/retinasouthafrica⁠ Twitter: ⁠https://twitter.com/Retina__SA⁠ Website: https://www.retinasa.org.za/ Podcast Disclaimer: Any information, either audio or visual, contained on this Podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical doctors, and you should always contact your physician or other qualified health care professional for any medical advice you need. The views expressed in this podcast do not reflect the views of Retina South Africa or any of our sponsors.

Happy Women's Day! Today is a day to celebrate the amazing women in our lives and to recognize the incredible contributions they make to our world. Let's take a moment to appreciate the strong, resilient, and inspiring women who have made a difference in our lives. Here's to all the women who have made a positive impact on our lives and our world! On today's podcast Karen and Claudette are joined by one of these amazing women, Dr Farah Moti. She is an Ophthalmic Surgeon with a distinction in her Masters dissertation, a mum of three, President of the Ophthalmological Society of South Africa, founding member and secretary of the executive committee of Women in Ophthalmology South Africa and passionate about quality eye care and cataract surgery for all patients. She ran a regional hospital Ophthalmology department for five years and had to give it up due to the daily travel. Unable to remain in the public sector as there were no options closer to home, private practice beckoned. She has dreams of attaining funding to start her own NGO targeted at cataract surgery and homeschooling education systems in rural areas. This Women's Month, let us celebrate the strength, resilience, and courage of all women around the world. This podcast is made possible by Roche Products (Pty) Ltd. Podcast Disclaimer: Any information, either audio or visual, contained on this Podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical doctors, and you should always contact your physician or other qualified health care professional for any medical advice you need. The views expressed in this podcast do not reflect the views of Retina South Africa or any of our sponsors.

Today on International Friendship Day 30 July 2023 we chat to Grant Medefindt. Grant is co-founder of a successful design agency in Cape Town. They have a growing and impressive portfolio of international corporate clients. After his family, his design and his dogs he is most passionate about his surfing. He has surfed J Bay, Mozambique, Maldives and Banyak Islands in Indonesia. Grant like all other people with Retinitis Pigmentosa has poor contrast vision and depth perception- visual attributes you really need for big wave surfing. Grant is using International Friendship Day to pay tribute to his surf buddies Brett, Brent and Guy who call the waves for him and ensure he drops in -safely and successfully.   This stunning photo shows Grant coming out of a BIG Barrel on Jailbreaks Atoll in Maldives. Moments like this bring all adrenaline addicted surfers back time and again looking for one more high as they crest that perfect wave. This podcast is made possible by Roche Products (Pty) Ltd. Podcast Disclaimer: Any information, either audio or visual, contained on this Podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical doctors, and you should always contact your physician or other qualified health care professional for any medical advice you need. The views expressed in this podcast do not reflect the views of Retina South Africa or any of our sponsors.

World Chess Day 20 July 2023 Chess is a game of strategy and skill that requires a great deal of concentration and focus. For a visually impaired person, playing chess can be a challenge, but it is not impossible. One of the most inspiring examples of a visually impaired person playing chess is that of Luzuko Ngwevwla from Cape Town. He learned to play chess in Worcester after going blind. Despite his disability, he enjoys playing in chess tournaments in person and online via Skype. There are several ways that a visually impaired person can play chess. One way is to use a tactile chess set, which is a set of chess pieces that have raised bumps on them so that the player can feel the pieces and tell them apart. Another way is to use a Braille chess set, which is a set of chess pieces that have Braille markings on them so that the player can read the pieces and tell them apart. This podcast is made possible by Roche Products (Pty) Ltd. Podcast Disclaimer: Any information, either audio or visual, contained on this Podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical doctors, and you should always contact your physician or other qualified health care professional for any medical advice you need. The views expressed in this podcast do not reflect the views of Retina South Africa or any of our sponsors.

Retinal Realities, Youth Edition celebrates World Youth Skills Day (15 July 2023). On the podcast today Sonya and Samantha are joined by Hilton Langenhoven, who shares his phenomenal journey as a former paralympic athlete, world champion and commonwealth medallist. A story filled with courage, determination, and resilience about “chasing” your dreams and believing in leaps of faith.  “Don’t cheat your workout, break-up with your comfort zone” - Hilton Langenhoven This podcast is made possible by Roche Products (Pty) Ltd. Podcast Disclaimer: Any information, either audio or visual, contained on this Podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical doctors, and you should always contact your physician or other qualified health care professional for any medical advice you need. The views expressed in this podcast do not reflect the views of Retina South Africa or any of our sponsors.

On the Youth Edition podcast today, we are joined by Charlie Dyasi and his guide dog Billy. Charlie is an inspiration to many. Despite his glaucoma, he has managed to become a successful sound engineer, voice over artist, radio presenter and podcast host. He has worked hard to develop his skills and knowledge in the music and entertainment industry, ultimately pursuing his childhood dreams. He is an example of how determination and hard work can help you achieve your goals, even when faced with a disability. Charlie together with his guide dog, Billy is no doubt an expression of “the sky is the limit”. “You are only disabled when you let yourself be disabled”, you are as abled as you are letting yourself and your mind be" – Charlie Dyasi Empowering youth today for a brighter tomorrow. Follow us on Social Media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100092317787481 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/retinal_realities_sa This podcast is made possible by Roche Products (Pty) Ltd. Podcast Disclaimer: Any information, either audio or visual, contained on this Podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical doctors, and you should always contact your physician or other qualified health care professional for any medical advice you need. The views expressed in this podcast do not reflect the views of Retina South Africa or any of our sponsors.

An introductory podcast which outlines the intention of the Retinal Realities Podcast: Youth Edition founded by Retina South Africa. This is a platform which will be used to empower, create awareness and support the youth of South Africa, who are living with a retinal condition. Through interviews with young people, their families and medical professionals the podcast will also explore the challenges and successes of living with a retinal condition. We encourage the members of the youth to interact with us on our social media platforms and share ideas and topics which may be of value and interest to them. “Empowering youth today for a brighter tomorrow”  Facebook: http://www.facebook.co.za/retinasouthafrica Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/retinasouthafrica Twitter: https://twitter.com/Retina__SA YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC54Y69fvfcCrsI8WIlFylIQ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/retina-south-africa This podcast is made possible by Roche Products (Pty) Ltd. Podcast Disclaimer: Any information, either audio or visual, contained on this Podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical doctors, and you should always contact your physician or other qualified health care professional for any medical advice you need. The views expressed in this podcast do not reflect the views of Retina South Africa or any of our sponsors.

Welcome to the latest episode on the Retinal Realities Podcast "Paws at the Office" our guests today are Mariza Jurgens and her guide dog Dotty. Today on Bring your Dog to Work Day we celebrate Dotty. Mariza is an international renowned advocate for accessibility and is currently on the working group to improve information accessibility for the disabled in South Africa.  Mariza has a visual impairment called ⁠Cone Rod Dystrophy.⁠ Mariza relies on Dotty and technology to help her navigate the world. Mariza and Dotty have a strong bond, and Dotty has received special training from the Guide Dogs UK to help her with tasks such as crossing the street, avoiding obstacles and finding her way around.  Dotty is trained to respond to Mariza's commands and to alert her to any potential dangers. Let’s show our appreciation for these amazing animals and the people they help! This podcast is made possible by Roche Products (Pty) Ltd. Podcast Disclaimer: Any information, either audio or visual, contained on this Podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical doctors, and you should always contact your physician or other qualified health care professional for any medical advice you need. The views expressed in this podcast do not reflect the views of Retina South Africa or any of our sponsors.

Happy Youth Day! We are so excited to have Alani Ferreira on the Retinal Realities podcast this week to remind the youth that they have the power to achieve anything they set their minds to. The message she is trying to get across is "Don’t let your disability limit you”, people are going to try and put you into a box, but the box has a lid, open the lid and climb out. Alani (25) was diagnosed with Stargardts at age 12. Since then she has completed both her BCom Strategic Management and BCom Honors in Management with distinction and is working in Agriculture! Above this Alani spends her spare time at the pool and is actually a two-time Paralympic swimmer. Last but not least, Alani adventures through life with her side kick and guide dog Gatsby. Alani is an inspiration to all, showing that even if you face unique challenges due to your visual impairment, you can still reach your goals and make your dreams come true. For more information on Stargardts visit our website at www.retinasa.org.za This podcast is made possible by Roche Products (Pty) Ltd. Podcast Disclaimer: Any information, either audio or visual, contained on this Podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not medical doctors, and you should always contact your physician or other qualified health care professional for any medical advice you need. The views expressed in this podcast do not reflect the views of Retina South Africa or any of our sponsors.