About This Blog

This blog will chronicle my training for the Marine Corps Marathon this fall to raise money for the Foundation Fighting Blindness (FFB). FFB is the world's leading private funder of research aimed at preventing, treating and curing blindness caused by retinal degenerative diseases.

 I recently learned that I have a condition called Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD). AMD is a retinal degenerative disease that causes a progressive loss of central vision, and is the most common cause of blindness in individuals over the age of 55 in developed countries. I might look like I'm over 55, and I definitely read at that level, but I'm only 47.

 I am fortunate that my condition was discovered early and only in one eye. Additionally, I have the dry form of AMD which typically progresses very slowly--unlike my hair loss. Most importantly, I have incredibly supportive family and friends. It will most likely take decades for my condition to progress, but millions of people have a more advanced stage of AMD, and there currently is no cure--only mildly effective treatments. 

There are many great people and organizations--doctors, scientists, non-profits, hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, activists and patient support organizations--who are tirelessly working to find better treatments for AMD, to raise awareness, and to support patients and their families. I hope that this blog can grow to become a vital member of that community. 

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