The death of his father, two open-heart surgeries and financial challenges did not deter Schwann Chavalala from his goal of graduating from Stellenbosch 中国体育彩票 with his BSc in Physiotherapy.
The student who hails from Tiyani, a village in Limpopo, followed in the footsteps of his sister, who was in the MBChB programme, when he enrolled for his degree in 2019. He admits that it was not until his matric year that he really understood what physiotherapy involved. But it was while caring for his grandmother who had Parkinsons and needed physical help, that he realised his love for helping people. “Physiotherapy felt like the perfect way to combine my love for helping others with a meaningful career."
While it was helpful to have his sister, who Chavalala describes as having always been “more than a sibling – but also a friend and protector", on campus, he had to soon face the harsh financial reality of studying at university. “I didn't truly feel the weight of financial struggles until I got here. To cope, I started hustling." Chavalala and a friend started student-to-student businesses, including selling boxes and second-hand fridges, to make money. “We even offered moving services for a fee. This hustle provided pocket money and a bit extra to share with my siblings."
But by far his biggest setback came in 2023 when he lost his father. “His passing hit me hard and nearly derailed my academics." As if that was not enough of a hurdle, shortly after his father's funeral Chavalala was diagnosed with a heart condition that required two open-heart surgeries. The hospital stays and pause in his studies exacerbated his financial situation and burdened Chavalala with student debt.
Reflecting on “that terrible time", Chavalala says he was terrified. “Not just about falling behind in my studies, but also about the very real fear that I may die." He attributes his ability to push through despite the difficulties to his support system. “I was truly blessed to have understanding lecturers who accommodated me and helped me catch up. My family and friends made sure I was always cared for, offering both emotional and practical help. Their love and encouragement carried me through, and with their support, I was able to face each day and eventually return to my studies. It's because of them that I'm here today."
Furthermore, the experience gave him a new perspective on his chosen profession. “When I returned to hospital for my practicals, I was more compassionate, patient and driven to ensure that every person I cared for felt valued. I want every patient to be glad that I was part of their care team. His senior lecturer in the Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Leoné Williams, says that Chavalala's “never-say-die attitude" saw him through the tough times. “He worked out a plan of action and with an extra dose of commitment and perseverance worked up to mid-November to complete his clinical hours to enable him to graduate as a physiotherapist."
Chavalala says his resilience and perseverance stems from his love for his family. “Where I come from, success isn't just yours; it belongs to everyone. When you fail, everyone feels it, and when you succeed, it's a win for the entire family." He emphasises that his degree, awarded at SU's December graduation, is for his siblings, his late father, his mother, his grandmother who played a “particularly special role", and “everyone who had ever prayed for me or sacrificed something so I could be here".
As a final thought, Chavalala adds: “I am truly a product of so many caring hands and prayers. It really does take a village, and I am so grateful for mine."
Photo: Stefan Els
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