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From diagnosis to degree

From diagnosis to degree

Nadia Meding

After years of severe migraines, a computed tomography (CT) scan, followed by a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan, led to the life-altering discovery of a tumour on Rian Beukes’ pituitary gland. 

He was only 22 at the time.

Despite this and many other challenges he faced, he is one of hundreds of students who persevered.

He earned his bachelor’s degree in accounting from the Namibia University of Science and Technology (NUST), an achievement forged through pain, reflection and moments of academic struggle.

His story began in Rosh Pinah, where he grew up surrounded by the laughter of his siblings, the wisdom of his supportive parents, and the thrill of being the fastest kid on the playground. 

A top learner, chess player and medallist in athletics and rugby, Beukes was unstoppable, even when he was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes in grade 4.

“Regular sugar attacks and emergency flights to Windhoek became part of my childhood,” he recalled.

 He did not let it dull his spark.

Fast forward to adulthood, Beukes’ prowess was tested.

He was diagnosed with a tumour in his pituitary gland.

When a person has a tumour in their pituitary gland, it means there is an abnormal growth of cells. 

The pituitary gland is a small but crucial gland at the base of the brain. 

It produces hormones that regulate many important body functions, including growth, metabolism and reproductive processes.

“You hear about people with brain tumours, but you never imagine it happening to you. Every time I rose, something would knock me back down,” he shared.

The diagnosis came just two years after the passing of his father.

 Still, he chose not to quit.

Before the first operation after his diagnosis, he admitted to feeling overwhelmed with bitterness and resentment. 

“I was in the hospital, receiving strong medication in an effort to reduce the size of the tumour. That day, the reality of my diagnosis truly sank in. But after a heartfelt phone call with a close friend, I found myself thinking: God wouldn’t allow me to face such a difficult trial if he didn’t believe I had the strength to endure it,” he recalled.

The day after the operation, Beukes was in excruciating pain. 

“Even amid that pain, a wave of calm and relief washed over me,” he said. 

A contributing factor to his speedy recovery was the unremitting support of his family and friends along the way. 

He said “I could not concentrate in class. My results were bad. I did not think I would complete my degree, but we were not raised to be quitters”.

Today, Beukes is in remission, exemplifying that purpose can still shine through pain. 

His message to others is, “Don’t ever quit. Celebrate small things. Be kind. Life is short. Live it with the mindset of a warrior”.