Jason van’t Slot (27), a cyclist living with cystic fibrosis (CF), has just released a short video of his epic cycling challenge. In his fight to gain access to life-saving medicine, Jason recently broke the Cystic Fibrosis World Record for Everesting (cycling the height of Mount Everest 8848m in one ride) by 1 hour and 6 minutes which you can watch below.
The short video documents his incredible feat and aids his fund-raising drive to support the Cystic Fibrosis Association of South African in their negotiations to gain access to this life-changing medication for South Africans living with cystic fibrosis.
Cystic fibrosis is a life-shortening genetic disease that mainly affects the lungs and digestive system. Someone born with Cystic Fibrosis in South Africa has a life expectancy of just 21 years.
Jason and many others in South Africa desperately need access to this new, life-saving medicine called Trikafta, that is only available in first world countries due to patent laws and it’s exorbitantly high cost of $311 000 per patient (R6million) per year.
Jason knew he needed to do something, so he decided to do an Everesting challenge. It is an incredibly tough challenge to undertake and even more so for someone with cystic fibrosis.
CF is a genetic disease that is caused by a defective gene. This leads to the creation of thicker, stickier syrup-like mucus throughout the body. It makes breathing difficult and leads to severe lung infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia. The thick mucus also makes it difficult to clear the lungs through coughing which creates optimal conditions for the growth of pathogens within the lungs and the narrow airways. This made his challenge that much more impressive.
Recurring lung infections scar the lung tissue, creating permanent damaged which leads to lung failure and eventually death.
The thick mucus also interferes with pancreatic function by preventing enzymes from properly breaking down food. Digestive problems leading to malnutrition, poor growth and deficiencies in essential vitamins that can lead to increased risk of diabetes and osteoporosis.
All funds raised will be used to support SACFA in legal negotiations and other costs necessary to help gain access to this life changing medication (Trikafta/Kaftrio) at an affordable price.
Jason recently documented his Everesting challenge through the short video seen above to share his story and has already raised close to R100 000. His target is to raise R884 800 by the end of the year.
You can contribute to the cause through this GivenGain donation link or scanning the QR Code below.
