Minister Nara Lokesh Steps In to Save Child with Costly Gene Therapy Support

• Nara Lokesh arranges Rs 16 crore injection for child
• Gene therapy saves child suffering from rare disease
• Lokesh supports family during treatment process

In a heartwarming act of compassion, Andhra Pradesh minister Nara Lokesh extended crucial support to a young child battling a life threatening illness, ensuring access to a highly expensive life saving treatment.

The case of little Punarnavi, who was suffering from a rare genetic disorder known as Spinal Muscular Atrophy, had drawn widespread attention on social media. A campaign seeking help for her treatment gained momentum, with many people contributing donations and offering prayers for her recovery.

Recognizing the urgency, Lokesh stepped in and assured complete support for the remaining financial requirements. He played a key role in arranging the import of a gene therapy injection worth around Rs 16 crore from the United States. The medicine, identified as Zolgensma, is considered one of the most expensive treatments in the world and is administered only once.

The injection was given at a children’s hospital in Hyderabad in the presence of Lokesh, who also interacted with doctors and the child’s family to understand the treatment process. His presence during the critical phase brought reassurance to the family.

Punarnavi, a one year old from Kurnool district, had been diagnosed with SMA Type 1 after medical evaluations in Hyderabad. With her father being from a modest background, arranging such a large amount for treatment was nearly impossible without external support.

Thanks to the combined efforts of donors and Lokesh’s intervention, the child has now received the treatment. Early signs of improvement have brought relief and hope to the family, as her recovery continues under medical supervision.

The incident has been widely appreciated, with many praising the timely intervention and humanitarian approach shown in helping save a young life.