After 2-Month Battle, 17-Yr-Old Gymnast Brijesh Yadav Passes Away
On a nippy Saturday morning, Brijesh breathed his last, succumbing to a coma of nearly two months.
Seventeen-year-old Brijesh Yadav wanted to be a national-level gymnast. Last year in October, things looked promising for him. He had won the silver medal at the national school championship in Agra, and was committed to winning the gold.
A year later, on a nippy Saturday morning, Brijesh breathed his last, succumbing to a coma of nearly two months.
During one of his training days in Agra, Brijesh missed a step while attempting an element called “double front.” He landed on his neck and immediately slipped into a coma.
During The Quint’s campaign to support Brijesh in his recovery, we spoke with his confidantes and loved ones.
His coach, Rahul Chopra, recalled that Brijesh had titled himself ‘Baahubali’ after watching the movie. He would make the other students and children laugh during training sessions. His coach described him as a “jolly” person – one with an easy laughter.
The doctors said 60 to 80 percent of patients like Brijesh die on the spot or on the way to the hospital. But for nearly two months, Brijesh held on.
His family, his two coaches, a coterie of well-wishers and friends, all came together to raise money for his treatment. Brijesh’s potential resonated even with actor Akshay Kumar, who recorded a special video message for him.
The Quint, in partnership with Ketto, had raised over Rs 2 lakh. His family and coaches independently raised around Rs 4.5 lakh, but it wasn’t enough. The treatment required at least Rs 10 lakh.
Brijesh never did recover to win that gold medal. But his sportsmanship, infectious laughter and a spirit to excel cannot be crushed by a life-support machine giving way.
He lives on among the thoughts of his parents, coaches, the children who laughed with him and a whole community of well-wishers who rooted for his success.
Video Editor: Ashutosh Bharadwaj
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