At just 21 years old, Sparsh has already achieved what many only dream of, inspiring and touching the hearts of millions across the globe.
Born with Osteogenesis Imperfecta, a condition making his bones extremely fragile, Sparsh faces unique obstacles in his daily life. Unable to bear weight on his hands and legs, he navigates the world differently than other kids. It was Sparsh’s diagnosis of severe scoliosis at the age of 14 that led him to Nemours Children’s Health. During a routine checkup and X-Rays with his local orthopedic doctor, Dr. Thomas McPartland, the scoliosis was discovered. Conversations about spinal fusion surgery immediately began.
“My scoliosis required me to rest often in my wheelchair or on my bed to relieve back pressure,” says Sparsh. “It severely affected my posture, which indirectly hampered the function of vital organs such as my lungs, which are important to my singing career!”
Sparsh is a renowned singer, songwriter, rapper, and inspirational speaker. With over 300 live performances in nine countries, including iconic venues such as Madison Square Garden, Radio City Music Hall, and Metlife Stadium, Sparsh has captivated audiences worldwide with his voice and inspiring message. He has also graced the stages of prestigious events like TEDx Gateway and the United Nations, delivering powerful speeches. Sparsh’s impact extends beyond the stage, as he has appeared on numerous radio and television shows, including NBC’s Little Big Shots, BBC, and Sony TV’s Kaun Banega Crorepati, reaching millions with his story of resilience and determination. Recognized for his philanthropy and advocacy, Sparsh has raised over $2 million for various non-profit organizations supporting children and adults in need.
Sparsh’s journey to Nemours Children’s Health began with social media. Through a Facebook group for parents of children with Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI), his family learned of Dr. Suken Shah’s groundbreaking work. “After hearing great reviews of Dr. Shah and learning of his specialty in spinal fusions for children with OI, we consulted Dr. McPartland, and he agreed that Dr. Shah’s methods were the most cutting-edge,” says Sparsh. “Thus, we decided to see him at Nemours Children’s Hospital, Delaware and the rest is history!”
From the moment Sparsh stepped through the doors of Nemours Children’s, he was met with compassion, expertise, and unwavering support. “The experience was very healing,” says Sparsh. “Not only was Dr. Shah super-friendly—and we could relate because we share the same ancestry and culture—but the nurses checked on us often and always came with smiles, willing to converse and comfort. Most importantly, Dr. Shah allowed my orthopedist, Dr. McPartland, to accompany him and learn his techniques during the surgery. What an honor for him and joy for me and my family!”
Under the expert care of Dr. Shah, Sparsh underwent spinal fusion surgery, where two rods and 19 screws were meticulously placed to straighten his spine, reducing his curvature from ≥80° to =30° on either side. The surgery marked a turning point in Sparsh’s life, offering him freedom and the opportunity to pursue his passions with renewed vigor.
But Sparsh’s journey didn’t end in the operating room. “During a follow-up shortly after my surgery, Dr. Shah warned me that I’d have to control my weight, or else I may reach a detrimental ‘point of no return,’” says Sparsh. “Because of him, for the first time in my life, I truly heeded the call to be physically active. Long story short, this fitness journey, with the help and inspiration of Innovative Physical Therapy in New Jersey, led to my first Guinness World Record for the Longest Raised Leg Hold and getting six packs!”
Looking to the future, Sparsh’s vision knows no bounds. With plans to release more original music, write prose and poetry books, and embark on international performing and speaking tours, Sparsh is a testament to the power of perseverance and optimism. “I still need to rest my back every now and then, and I still work out, and these activities have helped me realize that the most important part of healing is giving yourself permission to work hard, rest hard, and play hard! It’s all about balance.”
For those facing similar challenges, Sparsh offers these words of encouragement, “Be gracious to yourself, my friend. You are a soldier, given battles to fight that no one else can because only you can win them. However, you NEVER have to fight alone! You always have communities of warriors and supporters cheering you on, including me and my family—not to mention the Warrior who always fights for you!—so by all means, please reach out to and lean on them. And above all, as mentioned before, give yourself permission to rest hard and play hard as much as you work hard. You’ll need these things—community and balance—more than you know, and they will help you much more than you know!”
As he continues to inspire and uplift others with his music, message, and unwavering positivity, Sparsh reminds us that adversity is merely an opportunity for growth, empowerment, and triumph.
