Advancing AMD Research and Elevating Patient Voices

In a recent Congressional Briefing focused on Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD), leaders in research and patient advocacy came together to highlight both the latest scientific advances and the real-world impact of this leading cause of vision loss.

The program featured Rajendra S. Apte, MD, PhD, Paul A. Cibis Distinguished Professor at Washington University School of Medicine, who provided an in-depth overview of emerging research, therapeutic innovation, and the future direction of AMD treatment. His remarks underscored the critical role of federally supported research—particularly through the National Eye Institute—in driving meaningful progress and accelerating new treatment options.

The briefing also included powerful remarks from Connie Hills, PhD, an AMD patient advocate, who shared her personal experience navigating diagnosis, treatment, and the daily realities of vision loss. Her story brought urgency and humanity to the discussion, illustrating that sustained federal investment in research is not only about scientific discovery—but about preserving independence, dignity, and quality of life for millions of Americans.

Together, the briefing reinforced a clear message: advancing AMD research requires both continued scientific innovation and a strong, unified commitment to ensuring that vision research remains a national priority.

Watch the replay by clicking on the image below.