Baby boy to receive drug that parents hope will prolong his life

A baby boy from Manchester, who was told he had only three months to live, will today receive a drug his family hopes will prolong his life.

Haris Khan, from Wythenshawe, has Spinal Muscular Atrophy, a rare and debilitating genetic disorder.

The parents of the nine-month-old have always maintained a new drug called Spinraza could dramatically improve his condition.

While not a cure, trials have shown that it can slow the effects, allowing babies and toddlers to develop stronger muscles and survive for longer without breathing support.

The drug is available in many countries - including Scotland but it was labelled too expensive to be provided here by the NHS.

In March families from across the country came to protest in Manchester, calling on health bosses to make the drug available.

And today Haris will travel to hospital to receive his first dose.