Andhra Pradesh, Apr 18 (PTI) Andhra Pradesh Minister Nara Lokesh on Saturday oversaw the administration of a Rs 16-crore injection, Zolgensma, to a baby girl in Kurnool district, with part of the cost reportedly bridged through his support.
The infant girl from Veldurthi in Andhra Pradesh’s Kurnool district was diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA Type-1), a rare genetic disorder that severely affects muscle strength and movement, a press release said.
Doctors had stated that the only lifesaving option was a one-time gene therapy injection—Zolgensma—widely regarded as one of the world’s most expensive treatments, costing nearly Rs 16 crore.
While the family managed to raise Rs 10 crore through social media campaigns and public appeals over several months, they were still short of Rs 6 crore, which was reportedly arranged with assistance from Lokesh.
“The injection was administered on Saturday morning in the presence of the minister. Doctors completed the procedure, marking a critical milestone in the child’s fight for survival,” the press release said.
The TDP working president facilitated the import of the ultra-expensive injection from the United States and oversaw coordination between the pharmaceutical company, hospital authorities, and regulatory agencies.
The minister’s office played a key role in expediting logistics—from documentation and approvals to payment processing and transportation—ensuring there were no delays in the time-sensitive treatment, the release added.
After the procedure, Lokesh interacted with the medical team to understand the treatment process, reassured the family of continued support, and comforted the child, holding her in his arms. PTI STH SSK
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