Katya Vinogradova with SMA became the first Belarusian to receive Itvisma injection
The long-awaited injection was given to the girl from Kobryn in Dubai.
Katya Vinogradova in a clinic in Dubai. Photo from Instagram
Recall that Katya Vinogradova has SMA Type II — a dangerous genetic disease that leads to muscle weakness. In 2024 — the girl was then 6 years old — she "forgot how" to walk and moved on her knees (this is one of the consequences of the disease). Doctors warned her parents that the disease would progress and affect swallowing and breathing.
For two years, the family and volunteers fought to raise 1.8 million dollars for the unique drug Zolgensma, which stops the development of the disease.
Unfortunately, Katya was unable to receive it. The reasons were not disclosed, but, probably, the problem is the same as with Ksyusha Moiseenko — while the money was being collected, the window of advantage was lost.
But there is good news. Katya Vinogradova became the first Belarusian to receive the Itvisma injection.
This is a drug that activates the process of producing the necessary protein, maintaining the viability of nerve cells. This slows down the development of the disease, helps preserve motor functions, and in some cases — improves the patient's condition.
Itvisma does not completely cure SMA, but it allows controlling the disease and significantly improving the quality of life. However, these drugs are very expensive. Unlike Zolgensma (where one injection is enough), Itvisma needs to be injected throughout life. The cost of a year's course is hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Katya Vinogradova is undergoing treatment in Dubai. The drug was administered into the spinal cord — everything went according to plan. Now the girl is no longer in the clinic, but in a hotel. According to her relatives, she feels well.
Meanwhile, in Belarus, an urgent fundraiser is underway for four-year-old Maxim Kulida from Mozyr, who has SMA Type III.
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