We, Paul and Jacqueline Barnett, Vice President and President of CSBIS (Community Support for Black International Students), are raising funds to help Najay Gayle recover from a rare medical emergency that has left him with more than $60,000 in medical bills and as such we are seeking to raise $70,000 to help cover his medical expenses.

Just weeks ago, Najay was living a normal, healthy life when he was suddenly struck by a severe illness. What began as flu-like symptoms rapidly escalated into a life-threatening medical crisis that resulted in extreme pain, severe weakness throughout his limbs, and a temporary loss of mobility.

After weeks of testing and consultations with multiple specialists, doctors determined that a combination of viral infections had triggered rhabdomyolysis—a rare condition that causes the rapid breakdown of muscle tissue and can lead to serious complications.

Najay spent nearly two weeks in hospital and almost a month fighting this illness. Thankfully, he is now on the road to recovery and is working hard to regain his strength and mobility. While significant progress has been made, he continues working toward a full physical recovery.

"I am thankful to God for preserving my life and for the incredible support I have received throughout this journey. One of the greatest lessons from this experience has been witnessing the love and kindness of community. Although recovery has been challenging, I remain hopeful and committed to moving forward one day at a time. I am deeply grateful for every prayer, message, and act of generosity. Your support allows me to focus on healing, rebuilding my strength, and looking forward to the future."

— **Najay Gayle**\

As a Jamaican national residing in Canada, Najay was not eligible for provincial health coverage and did not have insurance available to cover the extensive medical care he received. Instead of focusing solely on healing, he now faces medical bills exceeding $60,000—an overwhelming burden created by circumstances completely beyond his control.

Najay came to Canada in 2019 and was among the very first students supported by CSBIS. Over the past six years, he has become an invaluable member of our community, known for his hard work, resilience, kindness, and willingness to help others. Those who know him can attest to the positive impact he has had on countless lives.

For more than six years, Najay has called Canada home, building meaningful relationships, contributing to his community, and supporting others through CSBIS and other organizations such as the Jamaica Foundation Hamilton and ACTS Community Worship Center Hamilton and more.

Today, we have an opportunity to support Najay in the same way he has supported so many others.

Every donation, regardless of size, will go directly toward helping cover his medical expenses and easing the financial burden created by this unexpected crisis. If you are unable to donate, sharing this campaign with your family, friends, and networks would make a tremendous difference.

Thank you for your generosity, compassion, and support. Together, we can help Najay focus on what matters most—his recovery, his future, and a return to the life he was building before this illness.

With gratitude,

Jacqueline Barnett, President

Paul Barnett, Vice President

Community Support for Black International Students (CSBIS)