Optometrist eyes top award

Jonathan Partridge is in the running to be named Optometrist of the Year as part of the Macular Disease Society 25th Anniversary Awards for Excellence.

The nomination recognises his hard work in providing advice and information to patients affected by macular disease.

Age-related macular degeneration affects the central vision and is the most common cause of sight loss in the UK. There are many other forms of macular disease, including juvenile macular dystrophies.

As well as being a community optometrist, Mr Partridge is also a hospital optometrist based at the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital where for the last 15 years he has carried out Low Vision clinics.

He said: “I’m very honoured that patients feel that I give of my best in trying to improve their vision.

“I really enjoy meeting older people and sharing in their life experiences. I particularly enjoy the challenge in making the best of the vision they have.

 “When a patient reports back to me that their vision has improved or that they are able to carry out a task which has been difficult for many years it brings me great joy. I feel delighted that I am able to make such a difference to their lives.”

In conjunction with Powys Local Health Board Mr Partridge helped to develop a Low vision scheme 15 years ago.

This has since been superseded by an All Wales Low Vision Scheme that enables people with visual problems to be seen locally by a trained and accredited optometrist.

Ursula Showell, who nominated Mr Partridge for the award said: “During all the years of the progression of my macular degeneration,MrPartridge has helped point me in the direction of all the best professionals and all the latest devicesith his views on their efficacy and price.

“I have seen many optometrists over the years and Mr Partridge is by far the best. He is extremely helpful, explains things thoroughly and does a marvellous job.”

Mr Partridge’s nomination will now be handed over to the judges, who

will decide on the overall winners and present them with their awards at the Society’s annual London conference on September 22.