Patient Testimonies | June 1, 2026
I am Andrea Bertram and I am a resident of Johnstown, Pennsylvania. Sixteen years ago, I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) which has caused many challenges to my life throughout the years.
As the disease progressed, I became medically disabled and a victim of the outrageously high medical costs this condition carries. Unfortunately, every day is a new battle and a new test to maintain self autonomy of my body and my brain.
For three years now I have taken Ocrevus, a drug that carries a list price of over $21,700 per vial. I receive this medication every six months at the cost of $63,000 every year, which is thankfully covered by a grant from the manufacturer and previously covered by an income-dependent foundation grant. And this outrageously high price is even an improvement from my previous drug, Copaxone, which used to cost me $7,700 every month.
In connection with the deteriorative effects of MS on my body, I have also developed Type 2 diabetes for which I have historically taken medications like Jardiance and Tradjenta, each with their own costly copays. I was responsible for paying 10% of the cost for my Tradjenta through my Medicare Advantage plan,until I met my deductible of $7,800. Due to recent changes in my medical coverage at the beginning of the year, I am no longer on Tradjenta or Jardiance, and am currently only prescribed Ocrevus for my MS and Mounjaro for my diabetes.
I only live on an income of $30,000, and the high costs of both my medications have forced me to shuffle bills around to pay for my medication or just rack up debt on a credit card.
Living life like this is not easy or fair. Patients deserve better treatment and more affordable drug prices.