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I am writing this because I refuse to let tragedy have the final word.
My journey into neuroscience began in the rural backyards of Nigeria and led me to the prestigious labs of University College London (UCL). I have spent 10 years pursuing a single dream: to map the mysteries of the human brain. But today, I am at a breaking point.
During my PhD, I faced the most devastating blow of my life—the loss of my young wife. Her passing, combined with financial setbacks, forced me to return to Nigeria to rebuild from the ashes.
I am closer than ever to my breakthrough, but I am stuck. I am making this plea today because I cannot—and will not—let the death of my wife be the reason my PhD journey ends.
The Innovation: 3D-Synaptometrics
Even in the midst of grief and instability, I never stopped working. I have spent the last few years independently developing 3D-Synaptometrics—a computational pipeline designed to revolutionize how scientists study brain cell interactions and neuroplasticity.
I have the data. I have the vision. I have the determination. What I lack are the fundamental tools to cross the finish line from my current base in Nigeria.
Why I Need Your Help
To defend my thesis and share my research with the global scientific community, I must overcome significant infrastructure hurdles. Your support will go directly toward:
- Outstanding Thesis Fees: Clearing the late submission fees required by UCL to finally graduate.
- A High-Performance Workstation: To process the massive nanometric datasets required for my computational models.
- Solar Power & Connectivity: In my current environment, reliable electricity and internet are not guaranteed. A solar solution is a necessity, not a luxury, to ensure my workstation stays powered.
The Transparency Budget (£7,400)
- UCL Late Submission Fees: £3,108
- Research Workstation/Laptop: £2,200
- Solar Power Solution: £1,200
- Software Licenses (MATLAB, etc.): £600
- Secure Internet Access: £300
This is Bigger Than a Degree
This PhD is the culmination of a 10-year scientific odyssey. By supporting this campaign, you aren't just funding a student; you are:
- Preserving a Legacy: Ensuring that the sacrifices my wife and I made were not in vain.
- Advancing Science: Helping launch a software tool (3D-Synaptometrics) for the global synaptology community.
- Fueling Resilience: Proving that even the most profound loss cannot extinguish the light of human curiosity and academic pursuit.
How You Can Help
I know that times are difficult for many. If you cannot donate, please share this story. A share to your professional network, your friends, or your community could be the bridge that helps me finish what I started.
I have faced loss, uncertainty, trauma, and years of interruption—but I am still here. I am still working. With your help, I will finish.
Thank you for believing in second chances, and for helping me honor my wife’s memory through the completion of this work.
Organizer
