A 61-year-old grandmother from New South Wales has become one of the first Australians to receive a newly approved drug offering fresh hope in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease.
Jenny Quiring, a former nurse whose career was cut short by early-onset Alzheimer’s, has started treatment with Kisunla, also known as Donanemab, the first new medication for early-stage Alzheimer’s in a quarter of a century.
“It’s probably the first little bit of hope,” said her husband of 41 years, James Quiring.
The monthly infusions aim to slow the progression of the disease, giving Jenny more precious time with her seven children and 15 grandchildren. “We’d like to see them grow up and be happy,” Jenny said.
Neurologist Dr Rowena Mobbs hailed the arrival of the drug as a major milestone. “Donanemab and the anti-amyloid class of medications is really a breakthrough, a new age in Alzheimer’s treatment,” she said. “We now have something to slow the condition after 100 years of research.”
The treatment doesn’t come cheap, with an 18-month course, including scans, costing up to $100,000. However, a government advisory committee is expected to soon decide whether it will be listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).
“It should be on the PBS — it’s definitely worth it,” Jenny said.
Long-term data released by the drug’s manufacturer shows that starting treatment earlier can reduce the risk of disease progression by 27 per cent, with increasing benefits over time.
For Jenny and her family, it’s not just about statistics; it’s about creating more moments, more memories, and more time together.
Images: 9News
