Hope for US trip to save eyesight

Mr Thomas' condition was diagnosed six years ago

A sports scientist will travel to America to take part in a trial for a new treatment which he hopes will save his failing eyesight.

Nick Thomas, 27, from Gwynedd found the treatment whilst chatting to fellow sufferers of Stargaardts macular dystrophy on the internet.

Eye specialists in the UK have advised people to be cautious and to seek medical advice at home first.

Mr Thomas has postponed his wedding to help raise the £10,000 for treatment.

Genetic eye condition

"My fiancé Marie supports me in this, although she is apprehensive that the treatment will work," said Mr Thomas from Talysarn in the Nantlle Valley.

"My feeling is that it's worth a go because they've told me that at worst my eyes will just stay the same, but at best my sight will improve enough for me to read two lines down on an optician's chart," he added.

I am staying positive in the hope that it will help me Nick Thomas

Mr Thomas' condition was diagnosed six years ago when he started work after studying sports science at Loughborough University. Since then he has given up work because he is no longer able to drive.

No treatment is available in the UK to treat Stargaardts macular dystrophy, a genetic degenerative eye condition which affects the central vision, said Tom Bremridge, chief executive of the Macular Disease Society.

Mr Bremridge and Larry Benjamin, honorary secretary at the Royal College of Ophthalmology advised anyone thinking of seeking similar treatments to be cautious and to seek medical advice in the UK first.

But Mr Thomas, after consulting his own eye specialist, said he had satisfied himself the treatment was right for him.

Appeal

"I've done a lot of research on the internet, and I'm in contact with other people who've had treatment. I am staying positive in the hope that it will help me," he said.

Echothiophate - the drug being used in the American trial - was originally developed for glaucoma patients.

It is undergoing a year-long trial of its suitability for use in the US for people with Stargaardts.

Mr Thomas estimates his travel and accommodation costs will be over £10,000 and an appeal has been set up to raise funds for the trips by the Llandudno disability team with whom Mr Thomas plays football.