Social media, if used correctly, can change lives of people who are in need and who deserve to be celebrated. A week ago, the story of an auto-rickshaw driver, Desraj, from Mumbai had gone viral. For the uninitiated, Desraj revealed that after losing both his sons, it was his responsibility to provide for his grandchildren and daughters-in-law that gave him the strength to keep going.  

When his granddaughter, then in 9th standard, asked him if she would have to quit school as they were dealing with a major financial crunch, he started working longer hours - leaving home at 6 AM and driving his auto till midnight to earn around Rs 10,000 a month. Things got tougher when the granddaughter said that she wanted to travel to Delhi for a B.Ed course. He had a fair idea that he won’t be able to afford it. To fulfill her desire to pursue higher education, he sold his house. "I can't wait for her to become a teacher so that I can hug her and say, 'You've made me so proud.' She's going to be the first graduate in our family," Mr. Desraj told Humans Of Bombay.

This story touched many hearts as people empathized with his situation and saluted his will-power. 

After the story went viral, people came forward to support him. A crowdfunding initiative, that wanted to raise Rs 20 lakh for Desraj, eventually ended up collecting Rs24 lakh for him and the cheque for the amount was handed over to him. A Facebook user named Gunjan Ratti started this fundraiser for Mr. Desraj.

He was so happy and celebrated this big occasion in the ‘Pawri’ style and accepted the cheque with a huge smile on his face. “The support Desraj Ji has received is immense! Because you all went out of your way to help him, he now has a roof over his head, and will be able to educate his granddaughter! Thank you so much," the Humans Of Bombay page wrote.

Needless to say, such stories bring a sincere smile to your face and, insinuate a feeling of hope and resilience in the face of miseries.

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