Help Philip Goss Get Life-Saving Medication for CF

Philip Goss, my childhood friend, is facing multiple debilitating conditions caused by Cystic Fibrosis. CF is a chronic lung disease that affects children and young adults, leading to severe complications. While most people his age are building their lives, Philip's primary goal is to overcome these challenges and secure life-saving treatment.

Philip was my closest childhood friend. We shared countless memories together, from watching our first PG-13 movie (Jurassic Park) to collecting baseball cards and play-fighting like our favorite wrestlers. Even back then, he had a persistent cough that never seemed to go away. It wasn't until later in life that he was diagnosed with CF.

During his early teen years, Philip's parents divorced, and his mother, Jayne, became his primary caregiver and biggest supporter. She stood by his side through numerous medical complications and extended hospital stays, even when he contracted Covid which was very severe. However, several years ago, tragedy struck when Jayne unexpectedly passed away, leaving Philip to battle CF alone. Currently, he resides in a trailer in Central Florida, inherited from his mother, but due to the high crime rate in the area, he feels unsafe there when he's out of the hospital.

With his mother's absence, Philip is struggling financially, medically and emotionally. His most urgent issue is pseudomonas, a bacterial lung infection that significantly worsens his condition. Slowing down this infection requires a costly combination of three medications, with the hospital demanding a $7,500 upfront payment before providing them. These medications are vital for improving Philip's lung health, increasing his chances of qualifying for a lung transplant, as transplants are only offered to those who are healthy enough and meet certain lung function criteria.

Unfortunately, the system has failed Philip despite his relentless efforts. Previously, he had a health grant that has since expired. Although he has applied to other programs and grants, he received a mere $200 grant from Pipers Angels. His monthly long-term disability payment barely covers his living costs, let alone his medical expenses. He has been unable to access food stamps, Medicaid, or obtain significant help from his social worker. While his health insurance covers 80% of his medical costs, Philip is left with a $50/month payment plan for the remaining 20%.

Philip's struggles seem never-ending. He previously attempted a new CF medication called Trikafta, which is not yet globally approved. While it effectively reduces mucus build-up and coughing, it carries severe side effects. Philip experienced weight gain, a rare occurrence for CF patients who are typically underweight, along with depression, mental fog, memory issues, fatigue, and hearing problems. Consequently, he had to discontinue the medication, and opinions within the CF community remain divided on its effectiveness. Additionally, Philip battles digestive and bowel problems due to the extensive medication regimen and prolonged hospitalization with limited movement. He has also encountered blood clot issues, necessitating the relocation of his port to the other side of his body.

Despite his struggles, Philip remains hopeful. Ultimately, he wants to return to his home state of Massachusetts, where the less humid climate would benefit his condition. However, for now, his immediate focus is obtaining the necessary medication that could significantly improve his health and provide him with a fighting chance.

Please support Philip Goss in his battle against Cystic Fibrosis. Your contribution will help fund the life-saving medication he urgently needs, bringing him closer to qualifying for a lung transplant and dramatically improving his quality of life. Together, we can make a difference in Philip's journey toward a healthier future. As Philip often says, "Cystic Fibrosis will not define me."