Miss Universe Jamaica, Gabrielle Henry Issues Statement After Returning to Jamaica

Miss Universe Jamaica 2025, Gabrielle Henry, has issued her first public statement since returning to the island after sustaining serious injuries during the 74th Miss Universe pageant in Thailand. The 28-year-old shared the message on social media on Friday, thanking supporters and outlining her focus on recovery.

“In a time that calls for stillness and healing, I am grateful to be in Jamaica and to feel the familiar strength of Jamaica surrounding me,” Henry wrote, adding appreciation for the prayers and encouragement she received from across the country. She also expressed gratitude to medical teams in Thailand, the professionals who escorted her home, airport staff in both countries, and members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force who assisted during her return journey.

Henry, who is also an ophthalmology resident, said the experience has reinforced her sense of purpose. “Moments of darkness do not diminish vision; they refine it,” she noted, while indicating that she will share more details at a later time. For now, she said her priority remains healing and service.

Her statement followed a challenging period that began during the Miss Universe preliminary competition, when she fell through a stage opening estimated at about 1.2 metres deep. Footage of the incident circulated online, showing Henry slipping mid-walk before disappearing from view. She was later carried from the venue on a stretcher.

According to an earlier update from the Miss Universe Organisation, Henry suffered an intracranial haemorrhage, facial lacerations, a fracture and additional trauma. She was admitted to intensive care in Bangkok, where she remained under constant neurological monitoring before being cleared for medical repatriation.

In her message, Henry also acknowledged individuals who played key roles in facilitating her return to Jamaica, including Culture Minister Olivia “Babsy” Grange, Vradda Rutnin, Honorary Consul of Jamaica to Thailand, and Arthur Williams, Jamaica’s Ambassador to China.

Henry is expected to continue treatment and rehabilitation locally as she recovers from her injuries, supported by family, medical professionals and the wider Jamaican public.

See her statement below