‘My Xbox can wait as Chennai needed help’

Thirteen-year-old Dhruv Anand loves animals. After seeing their plight in the Chennai floods, he donated his pocket money, a sum of Rs 10,000, carefully saved up over months to buy an Xbox, to the cause of animals. So how did he take such a decision?

“I had wanted to own an Xbox since a long time and had been spending my pocket money cautiously to save up enough to buy my own piece. I even saved up my birthday money and managed to collect close to Rs 12,000. So, I was very close to buying one. But then, I heard about the floods in Chennai and my father informed me about how animals were suffering. He suggested that I donate some amount for the welfare of stray animals. “Instead of giving Rs 1,000, I gave Rs 10,000. I know that it’s not a lot of money but it was the little I could do. My Xbox can wait as this is more important. Do I regret it? Of course not, why would I?

“I love animals and have rescued some. Though I am not involved with an NGO, I do my bit to ensure their safety. Once, on the way to the bus stop, I saw a puppy with an injury in her stomach. I took her to a veterinary doctor and brought her home where we made sure that she became healthy once again. She stayed with us till we found a home for her.

If you have an experience to share, as an on-field volunteer during Chennai floods, write to us at contact us. dtnext@dt.co.in with a picture. We will feature your story.