Carol Bacchus has been prescribed a costly medication ans she can't afford it. OHIP was stalling on whether to cover it. (MICHAEL PEAKE/QMI AGENCY)

TORONTO - Carol Bacchus now has the drugs she needs she needs to live -- and she's thanking QMI Agency for that.

Bacchus, 66, couldn't afford the $4,000 a month prescription costs for her blood disorder and the drugs weren't covered by OHIP.

"I was in fear for my life. I'm lucky to be here and I want to thank God for looking out for me and the (Toronto) Sun for helping me," Bacchus said.

She said a QMI Agency article helped get her problems solved.

Her platelet white cells eat her red cells and traditional treatments weren't effective. Bacchus was put on a drug called Revolade and her condition greatly improved.

The drug company gave her a month's supply of the drug but once they were used up, her problems returned.

Her doctor applied to OHIP Exceptional Access Program to provide the clinical rationale for requesting the unlisted drug.

There is no time limit for OHIP officials to review such applications.

Bacchus' condition can be life-threatening, Bacchus' doctor, Hanna Zuckerman said. Her platelet level has been down to four and the typical range is 150-400.

Hairdresser by trade, Bacchas had to cut back on her hours as her illness progressed.

"I want to thank everyone who was there for me and for looking after me," Bacchus said.

kevin.connor@sunmedia.ca