Minister Nara Lokesh Facilitates SMA Injection for Child in Hyderabad
Costly gene therapy administered at Rainbow Hospital
A rare medical treatment was administered to a one-year-old child, Punarnika, at Rainbow Children’s Hospital in Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad, in the presence of Minister Nara Lokesh. The child, diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA Type-1), received the Zolgensma gene therapy injection brought from the United States.
Doctors administered the injection as part of a one-time treatment protocol. The procedure marks a critical stage in addressing the life-threatening condition affecting the child.
Lokesh extends support for treatment process
Minister Nara Lokesh played a key role in facilitating the procurement of the injection, which costs Rs.16 crore. He assured the family of full support and remained involved throughout the process to ensure there were no delays.
During the hospital visit, the minister interacted with doctors to understand the treatment details. He also met the child’s family and reassured them of continued assistance. The minister spent time with the child following the procedure.
Background of the medical condition
Punarnika, a native of Veldurthi in Kurnool district, was diagnosed with SMA Type-1, a rare genetic disorder that affects muscle strength. The child showed no physical movement even after six months of birth, following which medical consultation was sought.
Doctors at Rainbow Hospital advised that the only available treatment was the Zolgensma injection, a one-time gene therapy. The high cost of the treatment made it difficult for the family to arrange funds independently.
Public response and fundraising efforts
The child’s parents, Suresh Kumar and Pushpavathi, began seeking financial support from January this year. The case gained attention on social media, prompting contributions from a large number of people.
By February, around Rs.10 crore had been collected through donations. The parents also approached Minister Lokesh through social media, requesting assistance in completing the remaining requirement.
Coordination for procurement and treatment
Following his assurance, Lokesh coordinated efforts to arrange the remaining funds and expedite the import of the injection from the United States. He worked with the pharmaceutical company Novartis, hospital authorities, and medical teams to complete documentation and approvals.
The process involved handling medical paperwork, government certifications, payments, and logistics to ensure timely delivery. Continuous monitoring helped avoid delays in administering the treatment.
Family expresses gratitude after procedure
After the injection was administered, the child’s family thanked Minister Lokesh, doctors, and all those who contributed financially and supported the cause. They acknowledged the role of public contributions and coordinated efforts in enabling the treatment.
The minister reiterated his commitment to support the child’s future care. The successful administration of the injection marks a significant step in the child’s treatment journey.