Marking 25 Years of The Gaucher Initiative: A Milestone in Rare Disease Care
Cairo, Egypt, [October 31, 2024] – In honor of International Gaucher Month this year, Project HOPE and Sanofi, through Foundation S, its philanthropic organization, mark the 25th anniversary of The Gaucher Initiative, a program that has significantly improved treatment access for people living with Gaucher disease.
Since its inception in 1999, the program has provided patients with Gaucher disease access to life-changing therapy, regardless of their ability to pay. Over the past 25 years, this initiative has not only brought treatment to rare disease patients in Egypt but has also significantly advanced the understanding and management of Gaucher disease across the country.
As of today, the Gaucher Initiative continues to support rare disease patients, with more than 30% of patients receiving therapy for over 20 years. Since its inception, Project HOPE and Foundation S have trained more than 500 health workers and enrolled more than 300 patients. Currently, the Gaucher Initiative is providing ongoing treatment for over 130 patients at seven university children’s hospitals across the country. In total, Foundation S, has donated over 400,000 vials of life-saving treatments through this program. This sustained commitment from all partners including specialized local and international experts, has led to supporting early diagnosis of newborn children, providing suitable treatment, and better disease management of Gaucher disease.
Dr. Reda Mansour
Country Director of Project HOPE in Egypt, reflected on the impact of the Gaucher Initiative:
“For 25 years, this partnership has been about more than just treatment; it’s about bringing hope to patients and their families. The Gaucher Initiative has empowered the diagnosis and management of this rare disease in Egypt, aiming that no patient is left behind.”
Dr. Pramod K. Mistry
Professor of Pediatrics & Internal Medicine at Yale University School of Medicine, and the chair of the international experts committee for the Gaucher Initiative highlighted the global impact of this initiative:
“The mission of the Gaucher Initiative is rooted in the timeless values of care and healing, while pushing the boundaries of modern science. This humanitarian program is a testament to what can be achieved when we unite ancient wisdom traditions in Egypt and the future to build an ecosystem of care for children affected by Gaucher disease. It is a beacon of collaboration, compassion, and cutting-edge care.”
Dr. Alaa Hamed
Global Head of Rare Disease Medical Affairs at Sanofi, reinforced the importance of continued collaboration:
“This milestone is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when we work together with a shared purpose. Sanofi remains deeply committed to supporting patients with rare diseases through programs like the Gaucher Initiative, which has transformed lives and strengthened the expertise of local physicians.”
Dr. Azza Tantawy
Professor of Pediatrics and Pediatric Hematology/Oncology at Ain Shams University, and the President of the Egyptian Scientific Foundation of Rare Diseases in Children highlighted the program’s success stories:
“Throughout my career, I have witnessed children who were diagnosed with Gaucher disease grow up to lead normal, healthy lives thanks to the awareness and support provided by this program. It has not only saved lives but has also given these children the opportunity to thrive, fulfilling their potential and dreams.”
The Gaucher Initiative’s 25th anniversary signifies not only a successful past but also a step toward a future of continued innovation and compassionate care. As Project HOPE and Sanofi look ahead, they remain dedicated to improving the lives of rare disease patients in Egypt and beyond.
