UK families campaign for NHS funding of costly cancer and rare‑disease treatments

Jess Duggan, a 44‑year‑old mother from Lewes, raised over £50,000 after a Mirror appeal to fund the life‑extending cancer drug Enhertu, which the NHS in England, Wales and Northern Ireland has declined to provide because of its cost. The drug, approved in Scotland and dozens of European nations, can add about six months of survival for patients with advanced breast cancer that has spread to the brain and liver. Duggan is urging new Health Secretary Yvette Cooper to make the treatment available on the NHS.

In Epperstone, actors Colin Wells and Joanna MacLeod are seeking public donations to fund pioneering research for a treatment of RRM2B‑related mitochondrial disease, which has been diagnosed in both of their children, Rachael and Joseph (“JoJo”). The rare, progressive condition leaves Rachael dependent on ventilation and central‑line nutrition, while JoJo faces similar long‑term health challenges. The family hopes new therapy can improve their prognosis and benefit other families worldwide.