The life of Inés García, a resident of Cádiz, took a drastic turn when she was affected by an age-related vascular disease that caused a sudden loss of central vision. Far from being discouraged, her story has become an example of overcoming adversity and gratitude towards the professionals in the ophthalmology department at San Carlos Hospital in San Fernando.
Diagnosed with AMD Syndrome, a degenerative eye condition that affects the macula—the central part of the retina responsible for detailed vision—Inés now primarily experiences peripheral vision and a distortion that makes straight lines appear wavy. Coming to terms with this new reality was, in her own words, "a very hard blow".
After going to the emergency room at Puerta del Mar Hospital, she was referred to the ophthalmology unit at San Carlos Hospital. There, she was informed about the incurable nature of her condition and the treatment, which involves intravitreal injections administered every four weeks to control the fluid interfering with her vision.
“"It was a hard blow practically overnight, honestly. It's something you don't expect to happen to you, but you have to gradually accept it. There's no other way."
Recently, the medical team decided to change the medication they were administering, as the previous one was not yielding the expected results within the four-week timeframe. Despite the complexity of the process, Inés highlights the "human quality" of the staff, describing the team as "wonderful, truly good".
Inés believes her cheerful and active disposition is her "best ally" in facing the illness. Despite her visual limitations, she continues her activities, such as walking and exercising, and doctors have confirmed that her positive attitude is crucial for coping with the condition.
Her testimony aims to raise awareness about the work of the ophthalmology team at San Carlos, specifically mentioning Dr. Claudia and Dr. Margarita. "They are very pleasant, endearing, they encourage you a lot, and they are attentive to all patients," she assures, expressing gratitude that "comes from the heart".
Although the primary cause of the disease is associated with age, Inés suggests that an "emotional shock" might have played a role. However, she prefers to focus on the present and the "spectacular, extraordinary" team at the ophthalmology department, to whom she offers her "great applause".
