Dame Judi Dench becomes patron of Yorkshire Macular Degeneration fund
Posted on 1 October 2024
The fund, launched by the University in collaboration with Hull York Medical School (HYMS), is celebrating its first anniversary of raising money to combat age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a progressive eye disease that affects around 700,000 people in the UK.
AMD is the leading cause of vision impairment among older adults in the UK, significantly impacting central vision. The disease, which makes everyday activities like reading, driving, and recognizing faces difficult, can dramatically reduce a person's quality of life.
Dame Judi Dench, who herself was diagnosed with AMD in 2012, has spoken publicly about the challenges the condition presents, including her struggles to read scripts and recognize faces. In her role as Patron, the Oscar-winning actress is set to bring greater awareness to this widespread condition and its devastating effects.
Speaking about her appointment, Dame Judi said: “I was pleased to be asked to be a Patron of the Yorkshire Macular Degeneration Fund. York holds a special place in my heart as I was born and raised in the city, and I was delighted to learn that the fund will boost the first-class research being done by Hull York Medical School and the University of York on early diagnosis and treatment of age-related macular degeneration.”
The Yorkshire Macular Degeneration Fund has already been able to appoint two full-time researchers, a Masters of Science (MSc) student and a PhD researcher to advance work in AMD detection and treatment. With Dame Judi’s support, the fund hopes to drive more contributions toward research that could help improve the lives of those affected by AMD.
Professor Matthias Ruth, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research at York, emphasised the significance of Dame Judi’s patronage. “Her understanding of the condition and empathy with those who are living with AMD make a significant contribution to highlighting the need for more investment in research. This will serve as a basis for improved diagnosis and treatments.”
To date, the Fund has made great strides in funding research positions, but more help is needed. Donations from the public will enable researchers to advance their work in treating this life-altering disease.
Find out more, or make a donation to the Yorkshire Macular Degeneration Fund. For inquiries or to discuss larger contributions, please contact Philanthropy Manager Sharon Oakley at sharon.oakley@york.ac.uk or call 07795 315 108.