My name is Liam, and Jaxsyn has been my housemate here in Melbourne this year, as well as a close friend for many years.

On the 6th of September, Jaxsyn was diagnosed with Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), a rare and serious autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks the peripheral nervous system. What started as a sudden and unexpected illness has rapidly changed his life.

Below is a message shared by his step-mum, outlining his journey so far:

“Jaxsyn was admitted to hospital on Saturday the 6th of September and underwent urgent testing. GBS was confirmed on Monday the 8th. He immediately began five days of treatment, but on Tuesday the 9th he was placed in an induced coma. On the 17th of September, he underwent a tracheotomy as the disease had severely affected his chest muscles and his ability to breathe independently.

Doctors plan to slowly bring him out of sedation to assess the extent of nerve damage throughout his body. He will require extensive rehabilitation including speech therapy, physiotherapy, psychology, splints, and potentially other aids to help him walk again.

Recovery timelines remain uncertain—it could take weeks or months—but thankfully, his youth and fitness are in his favour.”

This has all happened so quickly and has completely turned Jaxsyn’s world upside down. Just weeks ago, he was thriving—driving back to Sale on weekends to see his family, playing football, hitting the gym daily, and having the deep and meaningful conversations he is known for. Now, as a healthy 25-year-old suddenly facing such immense challenges, everything has changed.

Jaxsyn needs all the support he can get. His immediate family have had to take time off work to remain by his hospital bedside here in Melbourne, and our hearts ache to see him in this condition. Every contribution, big or small, will make a meaningful difference in helping Jaxsyn and his family as they face what will likely be a long and difficult road to recovery.

Myself and my partner Jas will continue to keep this page updated as we know more.

(Please note: Jaxsyn is not currently in a condition to be aware of this fundraiser. His family’s full focus is on supporting him through each day as it comes. This GoFundMe has been created on their behalf, both to raise awareness and to provide financial support. All funds will go directly to his family to assist with ongoing and upcoming medical expenses during his recovery)