IT'S graduation season and Samuel Imevbore (25) has defeated all odds against him to obtain his Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery (MBChB) from the University of Pretoria.
The 25-year-old from Nelspruit Mpumalanga, who was raised in Kempton Park, was diagnosed with sickle cell anemia at age 14 and has survived its many complications since.
Sickle anemia is a group of disorders that causes red blood cells to become misshapen and break down.
Samuel shared his relief of achieving his qualification on record time.
He said:
"There were moments when I doubted whether I'd reach this milestone, but here I stand. Navigating the rigorous demands of medical studies while managing my health condition posed significant challenges. It was far from being easy, but I was determined to persevere, no matter the obstacles in my path."
The newly sworn in doctor's road to success was met with daunting challenges, including numerous hospital visits to ease the condition.
He was diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy in 2019, which is a disease of the heart muscle characterised by enlargement and dilation of one or both of the ventricles. He was hospitalised for pulmonary emboli in 2021.
Samuel's determination and commitment were often put to the test throughout his studies, but he never gave up.
"The option to pace myself was never there because studying medicine always required more of me than I could comfortably give. It created most of my academic stress in my earlier years, and I started finding my stride once I had prioritised a healthy work-life balance," he said.
He shared that being a patient made him an understanding and empathetic doctor.
ALSO READ | Missing teacher: Another body found in damOpens in new window
"My struggles have equipped me with a unique perspective that I can better use to serve my patients."
Samuel also shared his gratitude to his family and friends for their role in the person he is today.
"Their unwavering support has been my rock during the toughest of times. I've also been supported by people everywhere I go, including my church people."
He said he's looking forward to embarking on the next chapter of his career and wants to make a positive difference in other people's lives.
"My journey has prepared me to face whatever challenges lie ahead with resilience and compassion," he said.
For more news and entertainment in the palm of your hand, follow our WhatsApp Channel via this link
