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Espanola woman raising $750,000 for a drug for her cousin

An Espanola woman says a drug is available to help people with a rare neuromuscular condition called Spinal Muscular Atrophy, but only if they are under 12 years of age.

Teri Lacey of Espanola is trying to raise three quarters of a million dollars for a one year supply of the drug called Spinraza for her cousin, Tori.

Teri says in June 2017, Health Canada approved the treatment, but the Ontario government, nor the pharmaceutical giant, Biogen, will cover the cost for her cousin’s treatment because she is considered too weak and too old.

Teri says Tori’s parents have remortgaged their property and listed their investments property for sale in an effort to raise the money.

She says, ironically, the Quebec government covers the entire cost, so there is some discussion about moving her cousin there to access the drug.

In the meantime, a Go Fund Me has been set up to ask the public for their help.

Go to:

Tori and Teri Lacey are cousins. Teri, of Espanola, is trying to raise $750,000 for a drug to help her cousin. Photo provided by Teri Lacey.

https://www.gofundme.com/toris-fight-for-spinraza?

Rosalind Russell
Rosalind Russellhttp://myespanolanow.com
Rosalind is Vista Radio's CJJM 99.3 FM - CJJM - Espanola's long-time Morning Announcer and Regional News Anchor/Journalist covering the districts of Sudbury, Algoma and Manitoulin. With a career in multi-media spanning the last 45 years, she has expertise in radio, television, newspaper and magazine writing. A long-time volunteer, she is the Inaugural 2025 Senior of the Year Award representing the Town of Espanola and represented women empowerment as the national 2024 Ms. Elite Regional Canada titleholder. A mother of five, and grandmother of two says simply, "I am the Queen of my Universe, and my children/grandchildren are my Crowning Jewels." Volunteering, pageants, reading and writing are her passions. If you have a story to share, email Roz at: [email protected] or call 1705-869-NEWS (6397).

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