Shamaya is only 19 years old, but anyone who knows her will tell you she has always carried a heart much bigger than herself. She’s the kind of person who makes people laugh without trying—smart, quick-witted, a little stubborn, and yes, a little “mean” in that playful way that somehow makes you love her even more. But underneath it all, Shamaya is selfless. She would give anything she had to help someone else, even if it meant going without. That’s the kind of person who chose to attend Henderson State University, working toward her dream of becoming a nurse. She wanted to care for others. She wanted to make a difference.

But on March 9th, everything changed. While in her college dorm, Shamaya began to feel like she couldn’t breathe. Within moments, she collapsed in the hallway. At some point after that, she became unresponsive. What started as a normal day turned into every family’s worst nightmare. Since that day, Shamaya has been in the hospital, fighting. She is currently on a ventilator, and doctors are still searching for answers. There is no official diagnosis yet—only uncertainty, long days, and even longer nights filled with hope, fear, and prayer.

This journey has been overwhelming in ways words can’t fully capture. Shamaya had to withdraw from her college courses, putting her dreams on hold. A young woman who was preparing to care for others is now the one in need of care. But she is not alone. Not for a single moment. Her parents have not left her side. They stand beside her every day, holding onto faith and strength even in the hardest moments. Her brother and sister are waiting, along with countless friends and family members who check in daily, all holding onto one shared hope—to see Shamaya open her eyes, to hear her laugh again, to see her light up the room with her beautiful smile. Shamaya is a fighter. And even now, she is surrounded by love that refuses to give up on her.

We are asking for your support during this incredibly difficult time. Whether through prayers, sharing her story, or financial help, every bit of support matters. It helps ease the burden on her family so they can focus on what truly matters—being there for Shamaya as she fights to come back to us. We believe in her strength. We believe in her spirit. And we are holding onto the day she comes home.