Cystic fibrosis will no longer automatically qualify children for the Make-a-Wish Foundation

CNN
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The Make-A-Wish Foundation has announced that cystic fibrosis is no longer automatically an eligible condition, due to “life-changing advances” in the outcome of the disease.

The philanthropic foundation announced the policy change in a Friday press release. They explained that from January 2024, children with cystic fibrosis will only be eligible if they have “complications or additional factors that make the current situation critical”.

Cystic fibrosis ihis lifelong progressive genetic disease, which causes an overabundance of mucus, trapping infections and blocking the airways in the lungs. Treatment options for the disease have long been limited, and diagnosis has been associated with a shortened lifespan.

But advances in treating the disease have allowed patients with cystic fibrosis to live decades longer. The current life expectancy for CF patients born between 2017 and 2021 is 53 years, an increase from 38 a decade ago, according to the release. And in 2019, the FDA has approved a “breakthrough” therapy which could be used by up to 90% of patients with the disease.

“This decision was not taken lightly, and we understand that it may cause some frustration and disappointment,” the organization wrote. “As with all wish references, we will carefully consider any CE request that a family member, legal guardian, medical professional or potential wish child believes meets our guidelines.”

The foundation said it would consult with a team of 19 doctors from diverse backgrounds, as well as some of the more than 200 medical advisers who support their chapters, to ensure the new rules are applied fairly.

The non-profit organization explained that it also grants wishes on a case-by-case basis for several other conditions, including certain cancers, epilepsy, sickle cell anemia and heart disease.

According to its website, the Make-A-Wish Foundation grants “life-changing wishes” to children between the ages of 2.5 and 18 who are diagnosed with a serious illness “that is life-threatening to the child.” .