Marlene's story

Marlene, from Tyne and Wear, has been receiving treatment for over five years due to Diabetic Retinopathy and explains how Action has helped her through a frightening time.

About two years ago Marlene completely lost her sight in her left eye and is now partially sighted in her right.

"I was just sitting at home one day and realised I couldn't see out of my left eye. I was so scared. Since then I’ve had a really hard time of it. Everyday chores like chopping vegetables and getting about are really difficult. I also have problems with my balance.

"I was so depressed. I think I would have been prepared for anything else but losing my sight. I get angry with myself and I become so frustrated. It was a real nightmare and still can be at times."

Cathie, the North East Action Team's Coordinator, heard about Marlene and arranged a visit. With Cathie’s support Marlene was referred to a clinic and registered as visually impaired.

Marlene enjoys doing crosswords and puzzles but due to her sight loss she cannot read the newspapers. She has a home computer but it was quite old and she was finding it more difficult to use. As Marlene is ex Women’s Royal Army Corps, Peter, Action’s Assistive Technology Coordinator contacted the Royal British Legion and obtained a grant to buy a new computer with magnification.

Marlene was only receiving Disability Living Allowance at the lower rate. As she has Diabetes it is important that she eats healthily. This means that her shopping bills can become expensive and in addition to this she was also finding it difficult to pay her utility bills. Marlene is a proud woman who found it difficult to claim for anything, but John, our Welfare Rights Officer, discussed her situation and helped Marlene make a claim for an increased rate. She was successful and received the increase as well as back-payments.

"I had no support when I lost my sight, I didn’t know who to call. It was really difficult coping but the extra benefits have really made a difference.

"The staff at Action really put you at ease, it’s really frightening when you lose your sight and I find it difficult to ask for help. Cathie was great at that, she would do all the calling around. If anyone was going through what I was and didn’t call Action, I think they would be lost. Losing your sight is horrendous but Cathie, John and Peter have made it less frightening."