Treaser - a fine example of resilience
Treaser, an orphaned child since childhood, was a beneficiary of FOCHTA first in her high schooling, then to further her studies at university as well. Four years ago, she started doing undergraduate studies in the arts faculty at Chancellor College of the University of Malawi. But after having done a year, she decided that was not the course she wanted to pursue, so asked the university if she could switch over to do a science degree. This was rejected outright by the universty. But she did not give up, so went to see the administration office and pleaded with them. In the end, she was allowed to switch over, but that she was not given any credit for the year she has done, instead to start over again in first year doing science. She was gratified that her sponsor, Professor Don Ferrin of Singapore MBA University agreed to continue supporting her.
But after finished two years, she was found to have a tumour in her brain, resulting in much disruption not only to her academic studies, but also suffered, as a consequence, from constant headaches and depression, thinking her life will have no further meaning. She then left university for several months. But as it turned out, the doctor who was treating her decided that no operation ought to be done, and eventually, it appears that the tumor have subsided. With counselling from FOCHTA staff, she continued her studies, this time with extra efforts. A week ago, she obtained her Year 3 results, obtaining four As, three Bs and four Cs. She will start her final year in February 2016. FOCHTA wishes her well while praising her for her courage and resilience in overcoming it all.