Community Rallies to Support Baby Punarvika’s Urgent Medical Needs

A poignant campaign called #SavePunarvika has captured significant public attention across the Telugu states. This initiative seeks to raise funds for an 11-month-old girl, Punarvika Sri, who is in urgent need of a life-saving injection, Zolgensma. Priced at nearly Rs 16 crore (approximately $1.9 million), this one-time treatment is essential for her survival due to a diagnosis of Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA).

Punarvika was born on May 12, 2025, to her parents, Suresh Kumar and Pushpavathi, in Veldurthi mandal, Kurnool district. At six months old, her parents noticed she was unable to move, prompting consultations at various hospitals. Eventually, specialists at a corporate hospital in Hyderabad diagnosed her with SMA, a rare genetic disorder that progressively weakens muscles by damaging motor neurons in the spinal cord.

Faced with a staggering cost for treatment, Suresh, who operates a modest barber shop, found the financial burden overwhelming. In their search for assistance, the family reached out to local government officials, including Andhra Pradesh Minister TG Bharath, who has advocated on their behalf. Despite their efforts, fundraising initiatives have yielded limited success thus far.

The situation gained traction on social media, leading to an impressive grassroots movement. Community members, youth organisations, and social media influencers have banded together to raise awareness and funds. Creative fundraising efforts, including bicycle rallies, have taken place across several districts. Students and local citizens have shown incredible solidarity, with schoolchildren contributing their pocket money to the cause.

One notable participant, a young man named Sreenu, undertook a remarkable 500-kilometre bicycle journey from Samarlakota to draw attention to Punarvika’s plight. The outpouring of support has deeply affected Suresh, who expressed immense gratitude for the solidarity and compassion from the community.

Despite the overwhelming kindness shown, Suresh has made a heartfelt appeal for further assistance from the government and philanthropists. He believes that with the right support, Punarvika can receive the treatment she desperately needs.

Individuals interested in contributing to this cause can reach out to Suresh directly at +91 7799279441. The campaign continues to gain momentum, demonstrating the power of community action in the face of medical emergencies.