St. Mary’s South MP Kelvin Simon is urging members of the public to remain vigilant amid reports that scammers are attempting to exploit a fundraising campaign for former national footballer Judy Thomas-Ward, who is battling cancer and urgently needs financial support for treatment in Colombia.

Simon revealed in an interview with Observer Media that fraudsters have been contacting potential donors with false banking details, seeking to profit from the goodwill surrounding the appeal.

“People should be on the lookout for scammers because there are some very dishonest people in society who use these types of situations to exploit innocent people who just want to do good,” Simon said. He recounted receiving a message from a concerned donor who had been approached with incorrect account information. “It’s just totally false,” he stressed.

MP Kelvin ‘Shugy’ Simon

Describing the actions of the scammers as reprehensible, the MP said it was “evil” for anyone to attempt to benefit financially from such a tragic and sensitive situation. He emphasized that donors should only contribute through verified channels, noting that funds should be sent directly to Judy Thomas or via the official GoFundMe campaign.

Simon appealed to the public to verify all information before making donations and to remain alert so that fraudulent activity can be quickly identified and stopped.

The MP, who has known Thomas-Ward since their primary school days in Bolans, spoke warmly of her character and contributions to the community. He described her as a role model, highlighting her success in football, which earned her a scholarship, and her academic achievements after returning home.

“Judy stands as an example for the youths in the Bolans area and the south generally,” Simon said. “She always strives for the best and puts her best foot forward in everything she does.”

Calling on Antiguans and Barbudans to rally around Thomas-Ward, Simon said supporting one another in times of crisis is both a moral and human responsibility. He also offered prayers for her recovery, expressing hope that she will receive the necessary treatment and return home healthy.

Beyond his public appeals, Simon said he has been actively engaging members of the business community to secure additional support, stressing the urgency of the situation.

Thomas-Ward, 43, is a Bolans Village resident and a well-known former youth and senior national footballer who also represented SAP Football Club in the local women’s competition. She has been an employee of the Ministry of Labour for the past 20 years and later served as a football referee following her playing career.

Members of the public wishing to donate can contribute through the Not Pan My Team Community League, the official GoFundMe page, or by calling 780-4816, 780-8099, 780-0929, or 771-4727 for further information.