Elaine Salmons, from Weston-super-Mare, has been leading the Macular Society’s sight loss support group at St Mark’s Church Centre for the past three years. Living with macular disease herself, Elaine’s dedication to volunteering stems from her desire to support others facing similar challenges.
The group gathers every third Wednesday of the month from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., providing a welcoming space for people affected by macular disease—the leading cause of sight loss in the UK—and other visual impairments. Attendees socialize, exchange practical tips, form friendships, and listen to guest speakers. Many also find comfort in simply sharing a cup of tea with others who understand their experiences.
For over 30 years, the Weston-super-Mare support group has been a vital community resource, ensuring no one feels isolated by their condition. Recently, Elaine, alongside volunteer Richard, organized an anniversary celebration in July, attended by the town’s Mayor, Councillor Martin Williams. The event was an opportunity for members to share their stories and for the Mayor to gain insight into the daily realities of living with macular disease.
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“Our support group is invaluable because it lets people share how they’re coping and learn from one another,” Elaine explains. “Peer-to-peer help makes a huge difference. At our anniversary, the Mayor and his wife experienced firsthand what it’s like for people with macular disease. He even said he wanted to return—not as Mayor, but just to spend time with us.”
Diagnosed eight years ago with myopic macular degeneration (MMD), a form linked to severe short-sightedness, Elaine understands the fears that come with vision loss. “When I was diagnosed, I was terrified,” she recalls. “I was still working and had no information from my optician about the condition. Being deaf as well, I worried about losing my sight too. That’s why spreading knowledge and connecting people to support groups is so important.”
After moving from Nottingham to Weston-super-Mare in 2022, Elaine quickly became involved with the Macular Society’s group and took on the role of group leader by January. “At first, I thought I’d just help with simple tasks, but I found myself leading the group,” she says. “We’ve grown the group and reached out to many in the community. When I go for my hospital injections, I leave leaflets about the Macular Society to help others find support.”
Elaine’s commitment is rooted in the hope that even small acts can make a difference. “If I’ve helped just one or two people, that’s wonderful,” she reflects. “The group is a place where people offer each other help, and that sense of community means a lot—setting up chairs and tables together and seeing smiles around the room.”
Macular disease affects nearly 1.5 million people in the UK, with around 300 new cases diagnosed daily. It profoundly impacts quality of life, often making everyday tasks like driving, reading, or recognizing faces difficult. Many describe sight loss as experiencing a deep sense of grief. While there is no cure, and most types are untreatable, support groups like Elaine’s provide essential connection and coping strategies.
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the most common type, affecting over 700,000 individuals, primarily those aged 50 and older.