A consistent counterexample in the theory of collectionwise Hausdorff spaces (Q1263828)

A space X is called collectionwise Hausdorff (cwH) provided for every closed discrete set \(H\subset X\), there exists a family \(\{U_ x:\) \(x\in H\}\) of pairwise disjoint open sets such that \(x\in U_ x\) for all \(x\in H\). Let (*) denote the property ``every closed discrete set is a \(G_{\delta}.''\) Clearly cwH implies (*). \textit{W. Fleissner} [Proc. Am. Math. Soc. 46, 294-298 (1974; Zbl 0314.54028)] proved that under \((V=L)\) every normal, first countable Hausdorff space is cwH, and thus satisfies the property (*). \textit{P. Nyikos} asked [see Problem 1.2 in Handbook of Set-Theoretic Topology, 633-684 (1984; Zbl 0583.54002)]: Does every normal, first countable space satisfy property (*)? The author answers this question in the negative by constructing a forcing model in which there exists a normal, first countable space that does not satisfy (*). The forcing is used to construct a ladder system on a stationary subset of \(\omega_ 1\), and the desired space is constructed from the ladder system as in previous work of the author [Isr. J. Math. 35, 257-285 (1980; Zbl 0467.03049)]. Thus, the solution to the problem of Nyikos is consistent with and independent of the usual axioms of set theory. \(\{\) In his discussion of Problem 1.2, Nyikos asked what happens to it under \(MA+not\)-CH. This question is still open\(\}\).