A Belfast man with limited vision has told of how he hopes to help “advance eye health, raise awareness and transform lives” as he takes on Africa’s highest mountain.
Seven years after Andrew Davidson was diagnosed with advanced glaucoma, he will next week lead an eight-day trek to the summit of Kilimanjaro.
The graphic designer from Gilnahirk said the challenge is a way of “helping treat and maybe someday finding a cure for this horrible condition”.
In Northern Ireland glaucoma affects 2% of the population over the age of 40, rising to 5% for those aged over 80, but around half are not aware they have a problem.
Mr Davidson said he retained limited sight in one eye after receiving care from an optician friend, the glaucoma team at the Shankill Wellbeing and Treatment Clinic, Belfast and the world-famous Moorfields Eye Hospital in London.
He has made it his mission to pay back to the Shankill clinic, by raising funds for advanced diagnostic equipment to enable the early detection and treatment of glaucoma.
“I admit I was floored when I was first diagnosed, and could easily have fallen into the victim trap,” he said.
“But the expert care and generous support I received from the glaucoma team at the Shankill Clinic was a game-changer.
“Their actions went above and beyond, preserving my remaining sight and helping me through the darkest of times.”
Reflecting on his achievements - skiing, cycling on a tandem, becoming a regular at the gym and completing an average of two ‘dawn’ runs each week, he also clocked his 178th Park Run last month.
“I try to think of my sight limitations as a different way of viewing life,” he added.
“I’ve a new-found strength and determination to show the world I won’t be defined by glaucoma.”
Mr Davidson established Pressure-Eyes with the goal of raising £40,000 by the end of 2025, and on January 17 will lead a 14-strong group to Kilimanjaro.
He added: “Our vision is something we often take for granted – at least until it deteriorates, or we lose it completely.
“Together with my gang of intrepid trekkers, we are thanking the Shankill clinic for all it has done for me.
“And in a practical way helping treat and maybe someday finding a cure for this horrible condition.”
Angela Knox, consultant ophthalmologist and clinical lead for glaucoma services at the Shankill centre, said: “Diagnosis can be devastating, but with appropriate early detection and management, progression can be slowed, and adverse effects minimised.
“We are currently monitoring 14,000 patients and there are hundreds more awaiting first assessment, which places great demand on limited resources.
“The funds raised by Andrew and his team will be a huge boost for our clinic, enabling us to enhance patient engagement, and extend our monitoring and teaching services.”
To donate, please visit Mr Davidson’s fundraising page.
