So here we are...on May 18th, I'm jumping out of a plane again! This time for a fantastic charity that carries out research into the many causes and treatments of blindness. Please help me to support this fantastic cause and hit my fundraising target.

The Gift of Sight Eye Research Centre is based at Southampton General Hospital in Hampshire, United Kingdom. The main areas of research are age related macular degeneration, glaucoma, inherited retinal diseases such as retinitis pigmentosa and childhood conditions such as nystagmus.

Our researchers combine laboratory research with treating patients in weekly clinics. This enables them to bring insights from the research laboratory directly to patients, many of whom in turn are firm and loyal supporters of the Appeal. Currently they have collected DNA samples on over 700 patients with age related macular degeneration 600 DNA samples from glaucoma patients and several hundred DNA samples from patients with inherited retinal diseases or nystagmus. These sample collections allow them to identify genetic risk factors for eye disease which enables them to determine better treatments for affected patients. In addition they are heavily involved in multiple clinical trials particularly for age related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy- a condition very close to my heart.  

Since 2004 the combined research efforts of the research team around the world have resulted in a significant number of patients with wet AMD now having treatment that brings a significant improvement to their sight. Patients across the UK can drive, read and go out independently again. Please sponsor me to sky dive in aid of this valuable research, that already is delivering such life-changing results.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity. So it’s the most efficient way to donate – saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

 

Thank you all in advance! J