‘Don’t play with my life’: Pleas for lifesaving drug to save daughter’s life
Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt has responded to Jess’s story and provided an update on whether the drug can be passed under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.
The Health Minister told Jim Wilson if the government gets the correct protocols and recommendations from medical expert panels then the Trikafta drug will be able to be under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.
“I want this to be one of the ones I do before I finish in the role.
When asked if it could pass before the election Mr Hunt replied: “I do think it is possible”.
Mr Hunt remains “hopeful” as the process will be underway to get the drug accepted.
Press PLAY below to hear the full interview
Cystic Fibrosis sufferer Jess Ragusa from Central Coast NSW was diagnosed at birth and her Mother Kellie is pleading for a drug that could save her life.
This incurable life-shortening genetic condition causes an abnormal build-up of thick mucus in the lungs, airways and digestive system and can make it incredibly hard to breathe.
Trikafta is the drug and it’s giving Jess a new lease on life telling Jim Wilson, “It’s changing my whole life”.
“This is the closest thing I have to a cure.”
With a high cost of 21,375 a month, the drug is not approved under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme causing her parents to remortgage their home.
Jess’s Mother Kellie McNamara told Jim, “It’s very much a waiting game”.
With a push to get the drug approved Ms McNamara said, “It’s like magic.”
“The thought of Jess not having this drug is quite hard.”
Press PLAY below to hear the full interview
Visit HERE for the Petition
Jess’s Families GoFundMe
Jess’s Social Media Story
Image: Instagram/Jess Ragusa