SKEENA REGION, B.C. – A family’s private nightmare has become a public battleground over our province’s values, and the life of a 10-year-old girl hangs in the balance. After the B.C. government cut funding for her life-sustaining medication, the family of Charleigh Pollock is now in a desperate race to crowdfund a treatment that costs nearly a million dollars a year.
The family’s fight has drawn passionate support from across the province, including from Skeena’s own MLA, Claire Rattée, who is challenging the government’s decision and demanding action.
Charleigh is the only child in British Columbia with the rare and fatal neurological disorder Batten disease. For years, the drug Brineura has been her shield, keeping her seizure-free and full of joy. As her family explains, “It’s not a cure, but it is giving Charleigh more time, more stability, quality of life and more memories with the people who love her.”
Now, that time is being paid for by the generosity of strangers.
The government’s decision was made despite stark warnings from leading international medical experts, who caution that withdrawing the treatment is “akin to a controlled euthanasia” and that without it, Charleigh faces “a horrific death.”
When Skeena News contacted the B.C. Ministry of Health, the response confirmed the procedural reality the family is trapped in. While citing privacy in relation to Charleigh’s specific case, a spokesperson explained that all new, high-cost drugs must undergo a formal, evidence-based review before public funding is approved.
This slow, bureaucratic system, however, offers little comfort to a family facing an immediate crisis. While the system follows its procedures, the reality on the ground is a 10-year-old girl whose family has been left in an “unimaginable position.”
The fight for Charleigh Pollock has become about more than one child. It’s a spotlight on a critical flaw in our system. Its struggle to adapt to new, ultra-expensive medicines that can save the lives of those with rare diseases. It is a fight our community is connected to, and one our leaders are being called upon to join.
The family’s plea is now our community’s cause. Their words are simple and urgent. “Please donate, share, and help us fight for Charleigh’s future.”
To support Charleigh and her family directly, you can visit their GoFundMe page at: https://www.gofundme.com/f/istandwithcharleigh
