The story of Dr. Jaida J. Payne and the foundation carrying her purpose to the next generation of students who refuse to give up.
The Dr. Jaida J. Payne Hope in Motion Foundation was established in loving memory of Dr. Jaida J. Payne — a resilient scholar, athlete, and advocate whose life was defined by perseverance, compassion, and purpose.
Jaida Janae Payne was born on February 28, 1999, in San Diego, California, as the youngest child of Stewart and Brenda Payne. From the very beginning, she was a force of energy, joy, and determination. A 2017 graduate of Olympian High School in Chula Vista, Jaida carried herself with an infectious smile and a can-do attitude that lifted everyone around her.
Jaida was hospitalized and temporarily paralyzed after being diagnosed with Transverse Myelitis, a rare neurological condition. Rather than letting this define or defeat her, it ignited her life's calling: to become a Physical Therapist and help others reclaim their movement and their lives.
She went on to pursue her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree, continuing to build the future she had promised herself since that hospital bed.
Jaida was taken from us far too soon when her vehicle struck an unprotected guardrail on I-75 in Tampa. She was 23 years old. Gannon University honored her with a Degree in Memoriam.
"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."
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To provide scholarships and support to students who have overcome adversity, empowering them to pursue higher education, personal growth, and meaningful impact in their communities — because giving up is never an option.