Doc, my first suggestion would be for you to find a good ophthalmologist -- a full MD who specializes in eye health. Optometrists are not MDs, and are fine for prescribing eyeglasses, but you need a specialist for your retinopathy. The good news: now that Baby Boomers have reached the age where retinopathy looms common, research and breakthroughs are on full throttle.
Let's all hope for a magic pill that cures Macular Degeneration affordably. Soon.