Bhubaneswar: The indomitable spirit of a 17-year-old Odisha boy is making national news. P Achyuta Rao of Jeypore town in Odisha’s Koraput district battled blood cancer and secured 60 per cent mark in the Plus II science examinations. He stuck to his conviction of pursuing higher education despite the pain and suffering and reached his goal.
Rao was diagnosed with blood cancer in 2019. When it came to his studies and exams, he did not use his illness as an excuse and took his exams as seriously as his fellow students. He battled the dangerous disease with his determination, dedication and hard work to come out with flying colours in the Plus II science examinations, the results of which were declared on Wednesday.
“Let God be kind to everyone and let nobody suffer like me. I was diagnosed with blood cancer after my matriculation examination. Lakhs of rupees have been spent on my treatment. Forget about the examinations, even survival was difficult. I had thought only to clear the Plus II examination somehow. In between my treatment, I never neglected my studies. I am very much happy that I have secured a 60 per cent mark in the examination despite all the difficulties,” said Rao.
Rao said it was not easy to pursue his studies with a debilitating disease like blood cancer but he assured his parents and relatives that he would clear his examinations at any cost.
I secured 60 per cent marks with the blessings of my parents, relatives and teachers, said the boy.
“We have no words to express our joy. Despite his struggle with the disease, he secured 60 per cent marks in the Plus 2 science examination. He has the ambition to continue higher studies. After another round of check-ups, we will decide the further course of action,” said Rao’s elated father, P Pratap Kumar.