Jamaica’s prospects in the 74th Miss Universe pageant hang in the balance after the country’s representative, Dr Gabrielle Henry, fell from the stage during the evening gown preliminary competition in Thailand on Wednesday.

Henry is said to be receiving treatment at the Paolo Rangsit Hospital in Bangkok, Thailand. Her exact condition remained unknown up to press time.

The competition’s grand finale is set to take place at 8:00 pm on Thursday.

Henry made global headlines on Wednesday after videos surfaced showing the beauty queen taking a tumble and then being carried off stage on a stretcher by medical personnel. Local pageant organisers then issued a statement disclosing that Henry’s injuries were not life-threatening and urged Jamaicans to keep Henry in their thoughts and prayers even as she undergoes treatment.

“She was rushed to the Paolo Rangsit Hospital, where medical professionals are attending to her care and have advised that she is not suffering from any life-threatening injuries; however, they continue to conduct tests to ensure her full recovery,” read part of the statement. “We kindly ask everyone to stay upbeat, lift her in prayer, and send positive thoughts as she receives the necessary medical care.”

Jamaica’s latest misfortune on the global scale came less than 24 hours after the Reggae Boyz failed to advance to the 2026 World Cup and follows mere three weeks after Hurricane Melissa ravaged the island. The series of unfortunate events led to an outcry on social media as Jamaicans questioned the bad omen.

“No, mon Jamaica, we better start praying and fasting for our country and its people,” urged one user online.

However, in the midst of questioning Jamaica’s recent spate of bad luck, prayers were offered up for Henry’s speedy recovery as some social media users chose to embrace optimism. Outlining that Henry has been performing well in the preliminary competitions, some users sent well wishes her way as they hoped to see her in Thursday’s grand coronation.

“The devil may try to sabotage, but God’s purpose prevails! Get well soon, Gabby! We’re rooting for you to come back stronger and conquer the finals,” one user posted under the Miss Universe Jamaica statement on Instagram. “All our love to the queen, she’s been making such great strides. We have faith in her placement. We hope she makes a full recovery,” another shared.

Henry’s arrival in Thailand was delayed due to the passage of Hurricane Melissa. She departed the island on November 4 and vowed to carry her people’s sense of resilience with her.

“My heart is broken for my country. Every image, every story, every voice from home stays with me. As I board that plane, I’m not leaving Jamaica behind; I’m carrying her with me. I am going to Thailand not just to compete, but to speak for every Jamaican who is hurting, to remind the world of our strength, our faith, and our unbreakable spirit,” she said.

Known for her compassion and service as a medical doctor, Dr Henry has been personally involved in outreach and assistance efforts, connecting with communities impacted by the storm and using her platform to encourage national unity and healing.

Miss Universe Jamaica 2025 Dr Gabrielle Henry hits the 2025 Miss Universe stage in Thailand for the National Costume Show in ‘Carry Mi Ackee Guh A Linstead Market’, a costume designed by Dermoth Williams. (Photo: IG/@missuniverse)