Paralysed gymnast Jesher Yau returns to Hong Kong for further treatment but funds running out

The 29-year-old is still hopeful of walking again after spending almost four months in a Missouri hospital

More than HK$2 million in donations have already been spent on his spinal treatment and rehab expenses

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Jesher Yau in his electric wheelchair at Hong Kong International Airport on his way to Princess Margaret Hospital. Photo: Handout

Published: 5:20pm, 8 May 2019Updated: 10:35pm, 8 May 2019

Paralysed gymnast Jesher Yau Tsz-fung has returned to Hong Kong to continue treatment almost four months after suffering a horrific fall.

Yau was picked up by his mother at Hong Kong International Airport before being transferred to Princess Margaret Hospital, where he will continue his rehabilitation on the long road to recovery after suffering severe spinal injuries in the US.

The 29-year-old former Hong Kong gymnast, who competed at international level and almost made the Asian Games squad, suffered serious spinal cord injuries when he hit his head while practising a routine at the Champions Gymnastics Academy in Kansas City, Missouri.

Friends and supporters of the gymnast started a fundraising campaign to raise money to help pay for funds necessary for his treatment, but the gymnast told local media that he had “almost used up all donations”.

Jesher Yau is greeted by his mother at Hong Kong International Airport. Photo: Handout

Through a crowdfunding campaign, the paralysed gymnast raised more than HK$2 million but because of the high costs of spinal care treatment in the US, he has nearly exhausted all donations. Yau had targeted US$400,000 and so far US$299,140 has been raised as of Wednesday afternoon.

Returning to Hong Kong on Tuesday afternoon in high spirits, Yau said he didn’t know how long his recovery will take and whether he will walk again.