In the autumn of 2016, after a number of visits to the eye clinic at University Hospital Coventry, I was diagnosed with Central Retinal Vein Occlusion. The consultant explained that I would need to have monthly injections in my eye. Outwardly I remained remarkably calm although I had never heard of this before! Anyway, the consultant explained that I would meet loads of people that had this all the time. He also asked if I would be interested in taking part in a trial. I felt that if I was going to have this done I might as well take part. It would make no difference to me and if it helps decisions about the drugs in the future, why not?
I took part in the trial at the Macular Unit in the Hospital of St Cross in Rugby. The trial nurses explain everything and there is much more background information taken. Being able to see the various scans and have them explained is so interesting. You tend to see the same technicians/nurses at each appointment. I was on a 2 year trial and for most of that time I had the same doctor performing the procedure. I also saw the same consultant at most of the appointments.
I wouldn't hesitate to take part in another trial. The NHS has to continually test different treatments and drugs and if you have to attend over a fairly long time, why not take part? The treatment I received was great. I was quite disappointed when the trial ended. Having to attend as an ordinary patient is nowhere near as interesting! I hope that the information acquired will help both the NHS and other patients in the future.
Back
Visit the UHCW CHarity Website
Please ensure you have a current blood test request form, if not please contact your hospital consultant or GP and they will post one to you. Unfortunately, your blood test will need to be rescheduled if you do not have a blood test request form when you come to a Blood Test clinic.
All blood tests are by appointment, please book an appointment using the Book Online button below.
If you have an appointment and cannot attend, please remember to cancel or reschedule your appointment so that someone else can use the time slot that you no longer need.
If you cannot book an appointment online, family and friends may be able to help – you can book appointments for more than one person from one account. Booking online is the quickest way to make an appointment.
If this is not possible, there is a telephone line for those who cannot book online. Please call 02476 153546 between 8am and 1pm Monday to Friday, excluding Bank Holidays.