Watch: Abbotsford man diagnosed with rare disease pleads for subsidized drug

An Abbotsford man is pleading to the province to fund one of the most expensive drugs in the world – one that could save his life and the lives of others.

Thirty-nine-year-old Brian Tjepkema suffers from something called Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome.

It’s a life-threatening genetic condition.

And as a result, his immune system attacks his body’s cells, which can cause everything from blood vessel damage to harming major organs.

For the past year, he’s been taking Soliris, a drug that he says has given him his life back.

But the cost is astronomical — some $750,000 a year.

And he’s hoping the B.C. government will decide to fund it for all those who need it.

Julia Foy reports.