Health body offers support for Translarna fund

Thu, 08 Sep 2016

The Island's health authority insists it's supporting the campaign to raise funds for local people with a muscle wasting disease.

Seven-year-old Finley Hesketh has Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, but the Department of Health and Social Care has refused to fund Translarna - a drug that could help prevent his condition worsening.

A charity called Finley's Tracks wants to raise money to fund the treatments. The DHSC has estimated it to cost almost £250,000 per year.

The Department claims it can help the campaign negotiate with the drug's manufacturers, and has praised the work of those involved with the appeal.

A number of prominent buildings and landmarks on the Island were lit green yesterday to mark Duchenne Awareness Day, including the Tower of Refuge and Ramsey Swing Bridge.