Celeste Fourie discovered she had a brain tumour while studying for a master’s degree in meteorology at the University of Pretoria (UP) in 2022.

Fourie (30) had to pause her studies to undergo surgery and subsequent treatment. Despite resuming her studies in 2023 while still dealing with severe headaches and other complications, her determination never wavered. She persevered through the challenging times and completed her MSc in July 2024 with a mark above 70%.

“I was overcome with joy and tremendous relief,” she says. “With all the challenges, I was happy to reach the finish line. But hearing that I achieved it with a mark over 70%... words fail to describe the joy I felt.”

Her journey, marked by a brain tumour diagnosis and subsequent recovery, not only reshaped her approach to her studies but also provided a profound lesson in perseverance. “My main concern at that point was to have a full recovery from my surgeries so that I could continue my studies. I knew that I wanted to complete my studies no matter what obstacle was placed in my way. But to complete my studies, I realised I had to pause my studies to recover entirely from my surgeries first.”

Celeste confirms that adjusting to life after brain surgery presented a unique set of challenges. Everyday tasks that were once second nature now required considerable concentration. “The most challenging part was finding a new ‘normal’. After the brain surgery, several mundane daily tasks required concentration. Learning to have compassion and grace for myself during my recovery, and applying it to my studies, was challenging. I would quickly get upset when I could not do things ‘as before,’ but I took it one day at a time with patience, grace and compassion.”

Staying focused on her studies during treatment was incredibly challenging. Her academic goals were a vital source of motivation, making the idea of abandoning her studies after brain surgery unthinkable. By keeping her objectives clear and reminding herself of her purpose, she found the strength to persevere through the most difficult days. Her mantra, "You did not overcome brain surgery just to quit now!" became a powerful testament to her resilience.

Celeste elaborates that her family played a pivotal role in her journey. While they could not directly assist with her MSc, their emotional and practical support during her recovery was invaluable. Additionally, the understanding and flexibility from UP came in handy; and her mentor provided a balance of encouragement and constructive feedback. “The University was extremely helpful and understanding. They did not pressure me, and allowed me to work at my own pace. My mentor, Dr Liesl Dyson, was always available and motivated me to keep on going at my own pace. She was very kind and gentle, but also firm, to make sure that I developed the best research I could.”

One of the most daunting aspects of her academic journey was handling feedback from her mentor. The challenge of revising and improving upon weeks of work was emotionally taxing. However, breaking down the feedback into manageable steps and addressing one comment at a time helped her stay motivated and eventually led to the successful completion of her degree. “The best way to overcome this challenge is to take one comment or feedback at a time. If you look at everything as a whole, you'll be overwhelmed, but by taking one comment at a time, you'll be done before you even realise it,” she advises.

Now brain tumour-free, she is determined to use her qualifications to support others in her field and community. Her goal is to inspire and assist individuals who may be discouraged by their own challenges. She hopes to demonstrate that with dedication and resilience, academic and personal goals are achievable, no matter the obstacles.

Celeste’s advice to those navigating health challenges while pursuing their academic goals: “Do the best you can every day. If one day you can only write a single sentence, then you've given your best. Your best will look different every day, so keep your focus on today, as tomorrow will be a completely new day.”