Public Donations, AP Government Help Fund ₹16 Crore SMA Injection for Infant Punervika

In a remarkable story of compassion and timely intervention, an infant from Andhra Pradesh has been given a new lease on life after receiving a life-saving treatment worth ₹16 crore .

Punervika , a baby girl from Kurnool district, was diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA Type-1) , a rare genetic disorder that leads to progressive muscle weakness and can become life-threatening. Born into a modest family in Veldurthi , her father, Jampala Mangala Suresh Kumar , works as a barber. The condition came to light when her parents noticed a lack of physical movement as she grew older.

Doctors advised a gene therapy injection, “Zolgensma,” as the only effective treatment, an option far beyond the family’s financial reach. In response, a social media campaign titled “Save Punervika” was launched, drawing widespread support and raising nearly ₹10 crore .

With a significant shortfall remaining, Nara Lokesh , Andhra Pradesh Minister, responded promptly by contributing the remaining ₹6 crore and ensuring that financial constraints would not delay the treatment. He also facilitated the import of the injection from the United States by overseeing necessary clearances and coordination.

The injection was successfully administered at a private hospital in Hyderabad , with Nara Lokesh present during the procedure. He interacted with doctors and stayed by the child’s side, offering comfort.

Expressing deep gratitude, the parents described the treatment as a rebirth for their daughter. The effort, driven by public support and decisive leadership, has turned a moment of despair into one of hope bringing a smile back to the infant’s face.