A gravely ill Native boy will receive the life-saving medication he needs to treat a rare genetic disorder.

Calgary Health Region, a hospital in Alberta, has agreed to pay for the $17,000 a week medication needed by Mackenzie Olsen, a member of the Na-cho Nyak Dun First Nation. Olsen, 10, ran out of the drug last week when no one would pay for it.

The hospital's decision is temporary while provincial and federal officials determine who will ultimately pay for the medication. Officials in Alberta, where Olsen lives on the Siksika First Nation, say Canada needs to pay because Olsen is Native.

Get the Story:
Hospital will provide boy with experimental drug (CBC 5/3)

Related Stories:
Gravely ill Native boy needs costly medication (5/3)