Rotorua survivor urges funding for daratumumab drug

Tove Jensen-Munroe, a 59-year-old cancer survivor from Rotorua, is advocating for funding of the drug daratumumab, which costs $220,000 annually. This drug is currently unfunded in New Zealand but is available in 50 other countries. Jensen-Munroe was diagnosed with blood cancer and AL amyloidosis, which significantly impacted her life. After successful treatment, she faces the possibility of relapse and sees daratumumab as her best option. Other patients are considering moving abroad or starting fundraising efforts to afford the drug. Jensen-Munroe's experience highlights the challenges faced by those needing access to expensive treatments.