'HSSD decision is like a death sentence to me'
A CHARITY volunteer with a rare genetic disease claims he has been handed a 'death sentence' after Health and Social Services refused to pay for life-prolonging treatment on cost grounds.
Neil McMillan, 52, said he wanted to expose the 'disgusting' treatment he had received from the department since being diagnosed with Fabry disease last year and its refusal to fund vital enzyme replacement treatment, due to a change in policy, which came into force close to the date of his diagnosis.
Mr McMillian, who works full-time and is a Vale Earth Fair Collective member, said without treatment he had been told he was unlikely to reach his 60th birthday.
A HSSD spokesman said it was unable to comment on treatment or care in specific cases and encouraged people with complaints to submit them formally.
He is determined to continue his fight 'to the end', he said.
