Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive disease of the retina wherein the light-sensing cells in the central area of vision (the macula) stop working and eventually die. AMD is the leading cause of legal blindness in people over 50. From the moment of his own diagnosis, educator and musician Dan Roberts has made it his mission to provide the most up-to-date information about AMD, its effects and challenges, through his website at mdsupport.org. Receiving over 60,000 unique visitors monthly, MD Support is the go-to for all things AMD. Now, as a "patient-expert," Roberts applies his wealth of knowledge to the First Year series, providing crucial information for the newly diagnosed, including cutting edge therapies, and tips on how to navigate everyday tasks with diminishing eyesight. The First Year-Age Related Macular Degeneration is an essential resource for everyone who wants to be an informed, active participant in the management of their condition.
Dan Roberts is a visually-impaired educator, author, composer, theatrical director, and musician. He founded MD Support in 1995 as a result of his own need for support and information about central vision loss.
Retired since 1995 from 23 years in public school education and 33 years in church music ministry, he now teaches at his own performing arts school, which he founded in 1984. In addition, he provides presentations about vision impairment for schools, community organizations, and support groups around the country.
He is the author of "The First Year--Age-Related Macular Degeneration" (Marlowe & Co., New York, NY, 2006) and is a consultant for pharmaceutical companies, lighting manufacturers, and dealers in protective eyewear. He is a Scholar with the Roundtable Group Expert Services Firm and a member of the low vision panel of the Society of Industry Leaders (SIL) under the auspices of Standard & Poor's Vista Research. He is a member of the Low Vision Leadership Consortium and the Low Vision Rehabilitation Group.
Dan Roberts is a graduate of the University of Missouri with a master's degree in education. He is the recipient of the 2004 Distinguished Service Award presented by the American Optometric Association Low Vision Rehabilitation Section. This is the highest honor given by the LVRS to an organization or individual for contributions to low vision care and distinguished service to the general welfare of the public. His organization was also awarded the National Eye Institute's 2006 Healthy Vision Community Award for innovative approaches to vision-related health education.
Dan and Christina have been married since 1968. They have three children and four grandchildren.
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