Indore: A three-year-old girl in Indore, Anika, is battling a rare and life-threatening disease—Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Type-2. Her treatment requires an expensive injection costing nearly ₹9 crore. In a desperate bid for help, Anika’s parents approached the Collector’s office during a public hearing and made an emotional appeal to Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav.
A Family’s Desperate Appeal
During the hearing, Anika’s parents explained that they have managed to raise approximately ₹3 crore with the support of society, charitable institutions, and citizens. However, they still face a daunting shortfall of ₹6 crore. They urged the CM to help mobilize support from women registered under the state’s Laadli Bahna Scheme, suggesting that even a contribution of ₹6 per woman could significantly help fund their daughter’s treatment.
Community Support
The family has been actively seeking assistance at major intersections, public gatherings, and local events in Indore. Citizens have contributed generously, but the remaining funds are critical for the treatment to proceed. During the hearing, social organization Vinay Ujala donated a cheque of ₹2.77 lakh, providing a small relief to Anika’s parents. Collector Shivam Verma also appealed to the public to come forward and support the cause.
Why the Treatment is So Expensive
Doctors explain that currently, only Novartis manufactures this life-saving injection worldwide. No other company has conducted research or production for this drug. Given the rarity of SMA patients globally, the cost of research, clinical trials, and production is extremely high. In addition, recruiting patients for trials is challenging, further increasing the drug’s price.
Anika’s story highlights both the struggles faced by families of children with rare diseases and the urgent need for public and governmental support to save young lives.
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