Maltese Government Matches Public Donations with €250,000 for Sandro Grech's Leukaemia Treatment

Government Pledges Half a Million Euros for Life-Saving Treatment

The Maltese government has announced a significant donation of €250,000 to Sandro Grech, a 41-year-old father of two daughters battling a rare and aggressive form of leukaemia. This contribution matches the substantial public donations already raised, bringing the total funds for Grech's urgent treatment to €500,000. The announcement was made on December 13, 2025, by Prime Minister Robert Abela via social media, underscoring the nation's collective solidarity.

A Battle Against Aggressive Leukaemia

Sandro Grech has been courageously fighting his condition for the past two to three years, enduring intensive chemotherapy and two bone marrow transplants donated by his brother. Despite these efforts, his condition has worsened, and conventional treatment options available locally have been exhausted. His only remaining hope lies in a highly specialised treatment known as CD7 CAR-T therapy, a clinical trial exclusively available in Singapore. This advanced immunotherapy works by training a patient's own cells to identify and destroy cancer cells, offering a renewed possibility for recovery.

Public and Government Unite for a Cause

The required cost for this life-saving treatment in Singapore is €500,000. In an overwhelming display of generosity, the Maltese public managed to raise €250,000 in less than 24 hours through crowdfunding efforts. Following this remarkable outpouring of support, Prime Minister Robert Abela announced the government's decision to contribute the remaining half, ensuring that the full amount needed for Grech's treatment was secured. The Prime Minister stated that the government's contribution, facilitated through the Ministries for Finance and Health, was made 'to offer hope' and highlighted how 'Sandro's story has once again shown how, as a united people, we are capable of demonstrating the very best of what makes us Maltese: solidarity.'

Expressions of Gratitude and National Solidarity

Prime Minister Abela also recalled meeting Sandro Grech during visits to families supported by Puttinu Cares in the UK, where he witnessed Grech's 'determination and courage' firsthand. Following the government's announcement, Grech's family expressed their profound gratitude to Prime Minister Abela and the government for the 'wonderful news we have just received, that €250,000 will be allocated so that Sandro can receive treatment in Singapore.' They also extended their thanks to every individual who supported them and made donations, reinforcing the powerful impact of national solidarity in times of need.