Physically Challenged Entrepreneur Turns Tragedy into Triumph, Helps Others

ALMATY REGION – Yeldos Baialyshbayev from Taldykorgan is a real example of optimism and spiritual strength. He helps the disabled reclaim their health.

1401169521_dsc_3298-vebTwenty-two-year-old Baialyshbayev didn’t just stumble upon the idea. Three years ago, he became permanently bedridden after getting involved in a serious car accident. However, after receiving a Group I disability classification, the young man did not despair. Gradually, he began to exercise on a personalised programme developed by a massage therapist. Then, his father and brother found a suitable imported simulator on the internet, which can help restore muscle tone and joint mobility. But the price of the equipment was very high so the men decided to make their own simulator. They made drawings, welded and soldered the parts and after two months, their creation was ready.

Their years of grueling work yielded results: Baialyshbayev got to his feet and is already walking with the help of a stick, although the doctors said that he would never get out of bed. He decided to share his success with others facing physical challenges. He developed his fitness club and applied to the Damu Fund to participate in the state programme Business Road Map-2020. He then, took a training course in business and received a grant from the state for 3 million tenge (US$16,484).

The municipal administration provided a gymnasium and relatives and friends made repairs and manufactured simulating equipment. Some of the equipment was purchased abroad on special order. Speaking at the opening ceremony of the club, Baialyshbayev emphasised that there is always hope for the disabled, they must not give up and they must believe in themselves and in their own strength; only then will their wishes come true. Deputy Akim (Mayor) of Taldykorgan Galiaskar Sarybayev said that Baialyshbayev is an example of steadfastness, courage and diligence. He gave hope for a better future to many people with disabilities thanks to his persistence and determination to succeed and prove that disability is not a sentence and not a cause for self-isolation.

The new fitness club has all amenities needed, not only for sports, but also for rest and communications. According to Baialyshbayev, this takes away from the pain and discomfort and relieves depression. Massage therapist Murat Zhadanov and coaches Yerlan Orunbayev and Nursultan Zhursinov all work together with Baialyshbayev. They offer training and special procedures to restore and strengthen the health of patients.

In the future, the young businessman, who also heads the public fund Asar and whose main goal is to improve the quality of life of people with disabilities, is planning to expand his business. His fitness club won best social project in the Different – Equals contest.


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