The Malta Community Chest Fund (MCCF) is looking for ways to assist the 40-year-old mother who needs life prolonging cancer treatment which costs €3,500 a month.
On Tuesday, The Malta Independent published an interview with Claire Ebejer, who is dealing with her cancer on a day to day basis, whilst trying to retain a balance between her family and work with the assistance of a specific type of medication, which up till now is not covered by government
Claire’s application for funding from MCCF is already being processed, and an answer will be given shortly.
“While we’re most confident that Claire’s plight for help from MCCF will be positively accepted, we furthermore want to stress that Claire’s motif and aim of the article in TMI was that she wanted to use her personal experience to emphasise that such treatments needs to be on the Government formulatory list for free drugs. Claire did this in the most selfless way, with the hope that this will not only benefit her but others,” Chairperson for Action for Breast Cancer Foundation Esther Sant said.
“The chances of recovery must never be underestimated. I myself had cancer fifteen years ago with two recurrences taking place, meaning my prognoses kept having setbacks. Each day is a gift from God, and knowing that we can unite together for support, especially from Malta Community Chest Fund, we rally together to champion life to the fullest. The Maltese are very lucky to have the assistance of organisations such as the MCCF. “
Action for Breast Cancer Foundation forms part of the National Cancer Platform, founded by the President of Malta Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca with the sole aim to bring together all organisations working for cancer patients. MCCF is the main fund that truly assist all patients who need specialised chemotherapy and any other treatement. Some treatments cost up to €13,000 a month.
Claire stressed that she and her family never intended to receive any direct funding. “The aim of the article was to raise awareness to other people with a similar condition and the emotional headaches you have when you hear the news and do not have the money to cover for it,” she said. Claire added that the work by MCCF is indispensable.
Claire’s story received tremendous feedback, and a number of people have personally contacted Claire to offer her support, even financially. On the comment board of The Malta Independent online, a number of people also commented they are willing to help, and called on the government to add the medication to the government’s list.
Mother spends €3,500 a month on cancer treatment