Representative Coble Receives “Brighter Vision Award”
Congressman Recognized for Commitment to Ensure a Brighter Future for Visually Impaired Constituents

Today, Representative Howard Coble met with representatives of The Seniors Coalition (TSC) and the AMD (Age-related Macular Degeneration) Alliance International to receive the 2005 Brighter Vision Award in recognition of his commitment to ensure a brighter future for Americans suffering from AMD and other visual impairments.

“The Seniors Coalition represents millions of seniors throughout the country – many of whom suffer severely from the affects of age-related macular degeneration, or AMD,” said Flora “Grandma” Green, National Spokeswoman for TSC. “As a result of a lack of awareness, so many of these seniors do not know what to look for at the onset of this devastating illness and many have no idea that there are treatments available that may stall the progression of AMD if they can diagnose the condition in its early stages.”

According to recent studies, more than 15 million Americans, over the age of 50, have been diagnosed with AMD in the United States. More amazingly, of all seniors over the age of 75, about one-third suffer from the deterioration of central vision caused by AMD.

“This week marks the international observance of AMD Awareness Week,” Green added. “Activities, designed to generate a wider awareness of AMD are taking place throughout the whole world targeting seniors and governments alike.”

“There is a real need for more attention to be paid to macular degeneration – especially with regard to education and research – as it has quickly risen to become the leading cause of blindness among senior citizens around the world.”

Representative Coble, through his leadership and action, has demonstrated a commitment to the education of AMD among his constituents, and a commitment to promote responsible public policies that will work to secure a brighter future for those suffering from visual impairments.

“Through his commitment to education and action, Representative Coble is one of a select group of Congressmen who have made it a priority to ensure that their constituents have the brightest future that can be offered,” Green said. “Right now, there is no cure for AMD; but with members of Congress such as Representative Coble, who have resolved to take action, we will increase the likelihood of our seniors to catch AMD in the early stages—through education—and we will have a greater opportunity—through research—to identify the illusive cure.”