​The Calvin Ayre Foundation (CAF) is proving to be an invaluable resource for patients in Antigua and Barbuda, fully funding medical airlifts necessary for accessing specialized healthcare not available locally.

The latest recipient of this initiative is Nastassia Connikie-Hall, a critically ill leukemia patient who was urgently airlifted from Antigua to Colombia for specialized treatment.

This charitable effort underscores the Foundation’s unwavering commitment to supporting those facing significant medical challenges and highlights the crucial need for global access to life-saving healthcare.

Nastassia, who has been battling chronic leukemia, needed advanced medical care that her home country could not provide. The Calvin Ayre Foundation acted quickly, ensuring that she received the treatment essential for her survival.

The airlift, which took place on March 10th, was conducted with onboard medical professionals ensuring Nastassia’s comfort and safety throughout the journey. Once in Colombia, she will undergo a series of specialized treatments aimed at improving her health and prognosis.

​“I want to express my sincerest gratitude to the Calvin Ayre Foundation for their generous financial support during this challenging time,” said Nastassia Connikie-Hall.

“The foundation has not only provided air ambulance services but has also arranged accommodations in Colombia. For this, we, the family of Nastassia, are incredibly grateful. You have left an indelible mark on our hearts,” a family spokesperson added. Nastassia also extended her gratitude to the Medical Benefits Scheme, anonymous donors, and others who have contributed to the over USD $200,000 costs associated with her treatment.

In addition to Nastassia’s case, last month the CAF also funded the emergency air ambulance evacuation of Gracelyn Roberts to Trinidad for urgent specialized treatment. After experiencing sudden severe headaches and vision loss in one eye, Roberts sought medical attention where an evaluation revealed the seriousness of her condition. Following a recommendation from Dr. Osborne for immediate overseas treatment and surgery, Gracelyn’s family contacted the Calvin Ayre Foundation, which promptly approved the emergency airlift.

“I am so grateful we were able to secure the funds needed for my mother’s airlift,” expressed Laura Goodwin, Gracelyn’s daughter. Following her surgery, Ms. Roberts is now recovering.

The Calvin Ayre Foundation’s ongoing efforts continue to shine as a beacon of hope for individuals facing medical crises, providing necessary financial and logistical support for patients in need of critical care beyond their local healthcare resources.