Ten days before Diwali (19 October), The Quint met young gymnast Brijesh Yadav, who, while preparing to bag a gold in the national school championship in Agra, broke his upper spine. He had missed a step while completing a move called the “double front” and landed on his neck.
We at The Quint decided to do our bit and launched a #SpreadTheLight campaign in partnership with Ketto, a crowdfunding organisation, urging people to contribute and help Brijesh.
We received an overwhelming response, and now, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav has come forward and offered to financially support his future treatments.
Brijesh got a wonderful Diwali gift when he received a personal message from superstar Akshay Kumar.
Once the actor got to know that the 17-year-old was a fan of his, he sent a heartfelt message to Brijesh. Akshay’s message reached not just people in the USA – who came forward to contribute – but also UP Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav.
Akhilesh had met Akshay in Mathura while the actor was shooting for his film and heard about the young gymnast. He immediately ordered the DM (Divisional Magistrate) to give him a full report.
The SDM (Sub-Divisional Magistrate) reached Paras Hospital where Brijesh is recuperating. After completing his enquiry, the SDM announced that the Uttar Pradesh government will take on the full expenses of Brijesh’s future treatment.
Till now, The Quint in partnership with Ketto has raised Rs 2,14,296 for Brijesh.
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