By Melissa Freitas

A recent article talked about new breakthroughs in restoring sight to the blind. A research project lasting for a total of three years consists of various patients from the United States and several other countries each receiving electrodes that are surgically implanted in the patients’ eyes, a small camera on their noses, and, finally, a video processor placed on their waists. So far the results have been positive. Patients are able to distinguish large objects such as doors and even notice people, although they are unable to make out specific features. The scientists behind this project hope to continue on with their research and ultimately develop the device so that patients will be able to see more clearly so that they can read, write, and perform other crucial tasks. The push for this type of research might be able to help the 3.3 million blind Americans who are over 40 years old and the 160 million people blind worldwide. With the increase in the number of aging people and the number of blind thought to double within the next three decades, it is extremely important to try to find a solution now. In addition to the artificial retina project, gene therapy and stem cell research are also being tested as possible solutions.

Those who have agreed to try these new methods are quite pleased with the results. Linda Morfoot, a 65 year old woman from California, who was blind for twelve years, is now able to play basketball with her grandchildren, see the lights of Paris, and see her hand while writing. Another California resident, 58 year old Kathy Blake is now able to sort laundry and see fireworks on the Fourth of July. However, there are downsides to this. Barbara Campbell, a 56 year old, said that at times her sight is like a, “gray haze—like being in a cloud.” She began losing her sight in her teens and by her late 30s she was completely blind. Although her sight will most likely never be like it was in her childhood and teens, she is taking part in this project in order to help future blind men and women. The artificial retina project seems to be a promising beginning to this type of research to help people afflicted with blindness.

I chose this article because my paternal grandfather suffered from blindness. His entire life was disrupted by losing his sight. It must have been extremely upsetting to not be able to do everyday tasks such as cooking, driving, writing, and reading. He was suddenly forced to be dependent on other people which, I believe, would be difficult for anyone. Also, on a more personal note, my grandfather lost his sight before any of his grandchildren were born so he was never able to see us, go to soccer games, sit in the audience at recitals, play ball, etc. Hopefully in the future things of this nature will not occur and people will not have to miss out on these memorable activities with their loved ones. I truly wish that my grandfather were alive to participate in this project. Perhaps he would have been able to regain some of his sight.

The progress that is being made seems rather promising. The blind do suffer because of the loss of sight although it is usually not as severe as cancer or other diseases. However, certain diseases can be cured while blindness has been relatively permanent. Out of all of the senses, the loss of sight seems to be one of the grimmest. The artificial retina project has helped numerous people regain at least some of their sight. It allows them to make out shapes, write, play certain sports, and see their family, friends, and others. I believe that this project will inspire other scientists to move forward and try new techniques and methods in the quest to end blindness. It will take time but more advanced progress will be made until the final result is achieved.

Source:

Belluck, Pam. “Burst of Technology Helps Blind to See.” The New York Times. September 27,

2009. http://www.nytimes.com/2009/09/27/health/research/27eye.html?_r=1

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