"Participation in a phase 1 clinical trial"

About 25 years ago, I first heard that gene therapy was being tested as a potential treatment for genetic eye diseases. Since then, I have held onto the hope that the specific genetic defect affecting me and many members of my family might one day be treatable.

Finding out that clinical trials have now begun for individuals with a defective OPA1 gene is, in my opinion, truly fantastic. Because a genetic disease is passed down to future generations, the prospect of a treatment provides a profound sense of hope for the future.

I feel such gratitude when I think back on my visits to the clinic. I am so glad that such highly skilled professionals have taken on this task. Emily and Chanel stayed in touch every step of the way, ensuring I was always well-informed and had everything I needed.