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
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.
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.
“I’m optimistic that I can walk again, somehow, someday. Medical expenses in the US were huge. We also have to pay a fee for crowdfunding [Gofundme] as well,” he told local media in his electric wheelchair.
“I must thank all the doctors and all the people and friends who supported me over the past few months.
“I really miss Hong Kong … especially the food. I ate way too many pancakes and hamburgers in America.”
Yau had planned to return earlier but his treatment became complicated when he suffered a bladder infection a few weeks ago. Yau, however, said he is getting better movement in his fingers and some sensation in his legs despite doctors in the US giving him only a one per cent chance of ever walking again.
“My back is also getting stronger through exercise. I need to stay positive,” said the one-time Olympic hopeful.
Yau’s treatment is also complicated by the fact that he had bought no insurance so he will rely on donations as he dreams of walking again.
