Through Her Eyes: A Tribute

‘Through Her Eyes’, the eighth CD by respected Australian jazz musician Dan Barnett, has been released as a tribute to his late mother, Joan Barnett, who had age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

The album brings together Sydney Jazz legends, with Dan leading the ensemble through a perfect selection from the Great American Songbook. A portion of the proceeds from the album sales are being donated to MDFA.

Dan describes recording the album as a “cathartic experience”.

“I just wanted to put a positive spin on losing my mum. I thought ‘what can I do that would make mum happy and I know she was so thankful that she could get treatment’.

AMD is a chronic, painless and progressive disease that affects the macula, which is the part of the retina responsible for detailed central vision.

It is the leading cause of blindness and severe vision loss in Australia – it accounts for 50 per cent of legal blindness.

While there is no ‘cure’ for AMD, highly effective treatment options are available for the wet (neovascular) form of AMD and aim to stabilise and maintain best vision for as long as possible.

Dan said his mother had regular eye injections and was able to maintain good vision until the day she died.

 “She was able to get treatment – she was fortunate she was able to afford the injections – so it (the AMD) was managed and she was able to travel and be involved and lead a full life.”

‘Through Her Eyes’ is available to purchase through Dan’s website: http://www.danbarnett.com.au/cds or jazz music outlets.

For information on treatment please refer to our fact sheet on Anti-VEGF injections. We also have a fact sheet on Eye Injection Costs and Rebates. Or call MDFA on the National Helpline 1800 111 709 and we can answer any questions you have.

MDFA can assist people living with macular disease, their families and carers with:

  • Disease information

  • Diet and lifestyle advice

  • Advice on accessing low vision services

  • Help navigating government supports and subsidies

  • Assistance in connecting people with support services in their local communities

  • Information and assistance in locating local transport options.