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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
National
Orlaith Clinton

Early Christmas for toddler with cystic fibrosis as he gets life-enhancing drugs

A family has received the "best Christmas present" after their little boy finally got life-enhancing medication he needs.

Lorcán Maguire, two, was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis (CF) as a newborn.

Since then his parents Jen and dad Dermot, from Downpatrick in Northern Ireland, have fought a long campaign to get the expensive drug Orkambi free through the NHS.

In a welcomed welcomed move, Department of Health Permanent Secretary Richard Pengelly announced in October that a deal had been made so that Orkambi and Symkevi could be accessed by CF sufferers.

Little Lorcan yesterday collected his "magic medicine" at the Royal Victoria Hospital for Sick Children, Belfast Live reports.

His mum says she is relieved (BelfastLive/ WS)

He was also discharged home to celebrate with family and friends.

Mum Jen said that the news is bittersweet as she knows of other patients who are awaiting the same "gift."

She shared the news on Facebook and vowed to keep fighting for families in need of the drugs.

Jen said: "Yesterday something very wonderful happened. Lorcán got his Orkambi.

"I’m so relieved that the day finally came, I hope all of those waiting get their call soon, I know the team here is doing all that they can.

"I am sending so much love to everyone and we won’t stop fighting until everyone has access to a drug that can help them. I feel so lucky and so grateful, I was crying my head off driving home while Lorcán slept behind me.

"So many people never got this chance and my heart breaks for them and for their families. You are in my heart and my thoughts. Thank you so much everyone for every single thing you have done to support us and support the campaign. Merry Christmas."

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