MDF Newsletter June 2005

Thank you ColleenColleen McCullough recently wrote to the Foundation saying"It is with a heavy heart that I write to you to resign forthwith asPatron to the MD Foundation. I feel I must step down allowing aperson of more robust health the duties that are required. I wouldlike to say that it has been a pleasure to have been the Patron ofthis Foundation for the last year, and to have been able to give itsupport and encouragement during that time."On behalf of all those involved with the Foundation the Chairman, Leslie Lofthouse, wrote toconvey our heartfelt thanks for the contribution Colleen has made in reducing theincidence and impact of Macular Degeneration in the Australian community."There is no doubt that Colleen‘s high profile as a renowned author and much lovedAustralian identity, has raised the awareness and understanding of this disease with somany people. The Foundation will be ever grateful for Colleen’s contribution and she willalways be a valued and cherished friend of the Foundation." - Leslie Lofthouse, Chairman.Sir Jack Brabham - Australian sporting heroSir Jack Brabham has Macular Degeneration. He is an Australiansporting hero, the legendary triple world Formula One Grand Prixchampion.Only weeks after last year’s MD Awareness Week campaign, JackBrabham was diagnosed with MD. "I didn’t even know about thedisease before being diagnosed. I found it difficult watchingtelevision and reading the newspaper," said Jack."My prognosis is that MD will not be cured but I can prevent it from worsening. I have nowadopted a healthier way of eating, take supplements and utilise low vision aids".Jack will help the Foundation by speaking to the media as part of our Awareness Week campaign.Campaign coverage and supportersAcross Australia your MD Awareness Week2005 will feature 300,000 brochures and30,000 posters. The poster image isfeatured on the front cover of this issue.They will be distributed and displayed viaOptometrists, Ophthalmologists,Pharmacies, Bowls Clubs and CommunityCentres.An extensive media blitz will include ItaButtose and Sir Jack Brabham spreadingthe word on Macular Degeneration.Optometrists will be available to addresslocal community groups on MD.If you would like a speaker to visit your clubcall the MD Awareness Week Hotline on1300 665 412.Our thanks go to our major sponsors ofMD Awareness Week 2005 - OptometristsAssociation Australia, Blackmores andNovartis Ophthalmics.Education • Research • Prevention • Intervention • Support