'I officially received Trikafta': Ottawa woman with cystic fibrosis receives life-saving medication
A 23-year-old Ottawa woman with cystic fibrosis received a life-saving medication this week, and is now vowing to continue to fight until every single CF patient has it "in their hands."
Last week, CTV News Ottawa introduced you to Sara Aldrich, who said her private medical insurance would not cover the $300,000 a year cost for the drug Trikafta. Trikafta is approved for use in Canada, but is not covered by her private insurance.
In a post on Facebook, Aldrich said she was notified by OHIP+ last week that her application to cover the cost of the drug had been approved.
"I am nearly 24 years old, realizing that as of today, I never have to live another day with the fear of how many days I have left," said Aldrich in a post on Tuesday. "The day has come. I OFFICIALLY RECEIVED TRIKAFTA."
Cystic Fibrosis Canada called Trikafta "the biggest innovation in cystic fibrosis treatment", adding it can treat up to 90 per cent of Canadians with cystic fibrosis.
“My lung function is the lowest it’s ever been, and I can’t see it ever going back up unless I get Trikafta," said Aldrich last week.
Aldrich was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at an early age, and has lived a mostly active life.
"I’ve watched my lung function go from the 90s to the 40s in 3 years. I’ve been told that there are no options left," said Aldrich on Facebook. "The only thing left that could possibly save me from a life ending before it has even begun is the miracle drug called Trikafta."
Aldrich says receiving Trikafta starts her journey of, "finally being able to accomplish all the goals I have set out for myself."
"As much as I would like to say that this is the best day of my life, truth is, it’s bitter sweet. While I have the medication that will save those with CF, I still watch my brother struggle with the same issues I have been dealing with over the years," said Aldrich.
"My brother is someone that I have always looked up to, and if I’m honest, he’s more deserving of this medication than I am. The harsh reality is that I sit here BEGGING for insurance companies to approve this drug for EVERYONE with Cystic Fibrosis. If you think I’m done fighting just because I got trikafta, you’re wrong. My big brother, my best friend, my hero is also in NEED of this medication. As well as thousands of others. And I will NOT stop until every single CF patient has it in their hands."
With files from CTV News Ottawa's Peter Szperling
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
Doctors ask Liberal government to reconsider capital gains tax change
The Canadian Medical Association is asking the federal government to reconsider its proposed changes to capital gains taxation, arguing it will affect doctors' retirement savings.
Keeping these exotic pets is 'cruel' and 'dangerous,' Canadian animal advocates say
Canadian pet owners are finding companionship beyond dogs and cats. Tigers, alligators, scorpions and tarantulas are among some of the exotic pets they are keeping in private homes, which pose risks to public safety and animal welfare, advocates say.
BREAKING Man wanted in connection with deadly shooting in Toronto tops list of most wanted fugitives in Canada
A 35-year-old man wanted in connection with the murder of Toronto resident 29-year-old Sharmar Powell-Flowers nine months ago has topped the list of the BOLO program’s 25 most wanted fugitives across Canada, police announced Tuesday.
Prince William and wife Kate thank public for birthday messages for son Louis
Prince William and his wife Kate thanked the public for their messages which had been sent to mark the sixth birthday of their youngest son Louis on Tuesday.
She was the closest she'd ever been to meeting her biological father. Then life dealt her a blow
Anne Marie Cavner was the closest she'd ever been to meeting her biological father, but then life dealt her a blow. From an unexpected loss to a host of new relationships, a DNA test changed her life, and she doesn't regret a thing.
How quietly promised law changes in the 2024 federal budget could impact your day-to-day life
The 2024 federal budget released last week includes numerous big spending promises that have garnered headlines. But, tucked into the 416-page document are also series of smaller items, such as promising to amend the law regarding infant formula and to force banks to label government rebates, that you may have missed.
Fire engulfs old Edmonton municipal airport hangar
A historical hangar at the former Edmonton municipal airport beside the NAIT main campus was on fire Monday night.
Soft skills, preparation can help new graduates land jobs, experts say
As new graduates enter the workforce over the next few weeks, they are likely to face challenges getting their foot in the door and must be prepared to effectively communicate what they bring to the company.
RCMP uncovers plot to sell drones and equipment to Libya
The RCMP says it has uncovered a ploy to sell Chinese drones and military equipment to Libya illegally.