After being diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at just three weeks old, Kristopher Dale has grown up knowing that he has a potentially life-limiting condition.
But now the 10-year-old says he is looking forward to growing up and becoming a dad one day after a drug to treat his condition, Kaftrio, was approved for children.
Kristopher's mum Sarah Dale, from South Shields, said: "When I heard it had been approved I don't think I stopped crying all day.
"It means my little boy can live."
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Kaftrio was approved for children aged six-11 this month, after previously only being used to treat people aged 12 years and above who have cystic fibrosis.
Cystic fibrosis is an inherited genetic condition that leads to the build up of mucus in the lungs and digestive system. This can cause lung infections and problems digesting food.
Kristopher spends around one hour every day taking medication for his condition and has overcome his phobia of needles to have his portacath flushed every six weeks.
Young Kristopher, who was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis following a heel-prick test at birth, has missed out on taking part in activities such as martial arts, boxing and rugby.
And his lengthy treatment routine has meant he often loses time with his friends.
But the schoolboy has spent his childhood putting on a brave face and taking everything in his stride.
And now Kaftrio will help to improve Kristopher's overall quality of life by improving his lung function and helping him to breathe more easily.
He is one of more than 1,300 children in England with cystic fibrosis, aged six to 11, who are newly eligible for this treatment, according to NHS England.
Sarah, 35, added: "Kristopher wasn't sure about agreeing to take it at first because he's had so many different medications and he saw it as 'just another tablet'.
"But he's done all of his own research into it and he's decided that he's going to have it.
"He said I want to grow up and I want to be a dad."
