Support continues for 19-yr-old teen runner; Noida DM assures financial aid to Pradeep Mehra for Army prep, mother’s treatment

The Internet can change lives at a drop of a hat. Perhaps, 19-year-old Pradeep Mehra may not even have fathomed what life was about to unravel for him. Mehra, who garnered national attention after a video of him running 10 km from work to home went viral, has now been assured financial assistance by Noida DM.

The Noida DM has come forward and extended financial assistance to the young aspirant for his mother’s treatment and his preparation for the Army. Mehra told ANI that he will continue working at McDonald’s for now.

“Uttar Pradesh | I met Noida DM today, he said he'll help me with my mother's treatment & give financial aid, get me trained in the preparation of getting into the army... I'll continue working for McDonald's as of now: Pradeep Mehra, whose sprinting video has gone viral,” read the tweet by ANI.

The 19-year-old who works at McDonald’s in Sector 16, Noida, Uttar Pradesh, runs every night to reach his home in Barola village after his shift. The youth who wants to join the Indian Army has been persevering to attain his goal.

His story of hard work and determination has won him praises from all quarters. Mehra became an overnight internet sensation after film-maker Vinod Kapri shared a video of him sprinting back home.
"Someone made my video and it went viral. People gave so much love to
the video. By this, I feel motivated and people also got motivated. I will say thank you from my heart," Mehra was quoted as saying by ANI.

After the video went viral, several celebrities and distinguished people retweeted it and lauded Mehra’s commitment. Lt General (retired) Satish Dua took to Twitter to appreciate Mehra’s efforts and assured him help to prepare for the recruitment tests. Cricketers and several prominent personalities from India Inc including Anand Mahindra and Harsh Mariwala applauded Mehra's dedication.
Noted photographer Atul Kasbekar reached out to Kapri and asked for Mehra's address to send Mehra a sports kit with running shoes, apparel and backpack from Puma.
Mehra, a native of Almora in Uttarakhand, lives with his brother in Barola near Noida. He and his brother are the sole earning members of his family. Both the brothers work day and night shifts to support the family.