In a heartwarming demonstration of the strength of community and compassion, a staggering sum of ₹10.5 crore has been raised to support the treatment of 18-month-old Kanav Jangra from Najafgarh, Delhi. Kanav is bravely battling a rare genetic disorder known as Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Type 1, a condition that affects the motor neurons, the nerve cells responsible for voluntary muscle movement. This touching story unfolds as a testament to the collective empathy and determination of individuals, including celebrities and the government, who rallied together to save a young life.
A Glimpse Into SMA Type 1 SMA is classified into various types based on the age of onset, with Type 1 being the most severe form, also known as infantile-onset SMA or Werdnig-Hoffman disease. Tragically, this condition strikes infants within their first six months of life, and some may not survive beyond their second birthday. The muscles’ inability to respond to nerve signals leads to weakness and atrophy, severely impacting the child’s quality of life. However, advancements in aggressive therapy have offered hope for children with SMA Type 1.
The Price of Survival: ₹17.5 Crore Injection To ensure Kanav’s survival and a chance at a brighter future, he required a life-saving injection known as Zolgensma. However, this critical injection came with an astronomical price tag of ₹17.5 crore, a sum seemingly insurmountable for his family. Faced with this daunting financial burden, Kanav’s father took the initiative to start an online crowdfunding campaign, igniting a social media movement that would ultimately change their lives.
The Heartwarming Response: A Collective Effort In an extraordinary outpouring of support, the Delhi government and prominent film and TV personalities, including Sonu Sood, Rajpal Yadav, Farah Khan, Vidya Balan, Shakti Kapoor, and Kapil Sharma, lent their voices and influence to the cause. Through their impassioned appeals on social media, they called upon compassionate individuals from all walks of life to contribute to Kanav’s treatment fund. Astoundingly, around 1.5 lakh people joined hands, demonstrating the incredible power of collective empathy.
A Lifeline Extended: Medicine for ₹10.5 Crore In a truly heartening turn of events, the U.S. drug manufacturer responded to the overwhelming support and agreed to provide the life-saving medicine at a significantly reduced cost of ₹10.5 crore. This remarkable gesture not only saved Kanav’s life but also rekindled hope for countless others facing similar challenges.
Kanav’s Journey of Hope Kanav’s father, Amit Jangra, expressed his profound gratitude, stating that after receiving the injection on July 13, his son’s progress has been nothing short of miraculous. Kanav’s legs have started to move, and he can now sit independently—a testament to the impact of unwavering support and medical advancements.
A Lesson in Unity and Compassion Kanav’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the boundless compassion that resides within communities and the incredible transformations that can occur when people unite for a common cause. It showcases the indomitable spirit of humanity and the capacity to turn the darkest of circumstances into rays of hope.
A Visit From the Chief Minister Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal visited Kanav’s home to inquire about his health and express his gratitude to all those who rallied behind this noble cause. CM Kejriwal shared that this injection has significantly improved Kanav’s condition, allowing him to lead a healthier and happier life. He extended his thanks to the central government for relaxing the import duty on the injection, highlighting the power of collective efforts in transforming lives.
Kanav’s journey is a testament to the extraordinary impact that collective compassion can have on individuals and communities alike.