Treatment for Kayden Kot's rare condition will be covered, Sask. says

There's been a change of heart at Saskatchewan's health ministry.

The province will now pay for a Saskatoon child's treatment in the United States.

Kayden Kot, four, has multiple food allergies and relies on a feeding tube to get nutrition. His medical condition has affected his development and he cannot walk or talk.

The family has found a treatment option in Denver, Colo., which they believe is the best action for the boy.

• Saskatoon family seeks help for deadly food allergy

The province initially said it would not pay for that treatment, holding the view that services available in Saskatoon had to be accessed.

Dustin Duncan, Saskatchewan's health minister, said Friday that officials examined the case and determined the family has accessed treatment that is available at home, and the out-of-country option will now be covered.

"It was acknowledged that, for the most part, services had been better accessed by the family and that Kayden was still, basically plateau, had plateaued," he said.

The family is still working on a fundraising event, set for Jan. 23, to help with travel costs and other expenses not covered by Saskatchewan.

Family members were busy tending to various needs on Friday, but released a statement saying they were relieved but remain frustrated that the process for approval was so difficult.

Here is their statement:

"So far, we know that after a 8 month long wait, countless meetings within our health region, three applications, one appeal, we have finally been approved to attend the Star Center in Denver, CO. We have no other details at this time.

We are still waiting to hear back from the government on all Kayden's other complexities and needs that cannot be met in our province. Kayden [sic]diet is a major part of this.

Although we are relieved Kayden will receive this treatment we are also disappointed things took so long. Time is of the essence in young child's life and at Kayden's expense he will have waited 8 months for the therapies.

Thankfully we have many supportive friends, family, communities and coworkers who continue to help us be the best advocates for Kayden that we can be. We want to send out a huge Thank You to all, we cannot express our gratitude enough!

Kayden's benefit for continued medical support is scheduled for January 23. This will help us focus on paying for the costs of travel to the US, accommodations, his neuro-movement lessons in California, his diet, and his numerous supplements."

They also provided the following information about the benefit: For tickets or more information in regards to Kayden's Benefit please contact smfortier@hotmail.com or ps.kot@sasktel.net.