A. Reza Saadat

Vertex's Telaprevir May Become a Multi-Billion Dollar Drug

Dear TwinStridesForCF:

I hope you read this.

I know your situation almost too well. My older brother ( by 20 months) was diagnosed at age 3 with CF. It was a very tough childhood for all of us; we all struggled. But he was a fighter and 10 years ago, he received a pair of lungs. The surgery was not easy and the recovery was long but he is now doing very very well. In my lifetime, I saw the medical science develop and discover new treatments for this disease. When my brother was diagnosed, the lifespan was 19 years, now it is almost twice that.

His disease even inspired me to go into drug research. I worked at Vertex and and Altus who was developing a better pancreatic enzyme. My only advice is to be diligent with keeping your children's lung's healthy( avoid getting the flu) , keep their body weight up and make sure they exercise. They will be fine, I am sure. I don't know if Vertex's treatment will ever reach the market but I believe in science and some day it will happen! Support the CF foundation because they are a major source of capital for innovation in this field.


I will pray for you and your kids every night. my email is [e-mail]...... free to contact me if you ever want to chat.

Best of luck, A.Reza Saadat