Blind cancer survivor overcomes obstacles to achieve matric distinction

AFTER losing her sight to cancer at age nine and missing three years of school, Thireshni Andrea Padayachee defied the odds to complete her matric.

Thireshni, 20, attended the Open Air School and her subjects included English, Afrikaans, life orientation, mathematical literacy, business studies, religious studies, and hospitality studies. 

She obtained a Bachelor Pass and a distinction in business studies. 

Thireshni said at the age of nine she was diagnosed with Rhabdomyosarcoma - a rare type of cancer that started as a growth of cells in the soft tissue.

“As a result of the tumour in my nasal cavity pushing onto my optic nerves, I lost my eyesight. I thereafter underwent intensive chemotherapy and radiation which resulted in me missing three years of school.”

Thireshni, who lives in Phoenix, said losing her sight required her to adapt to a new way of learning, including learning Braille and using assistive technology. 

“Despite these challenges, I continued with my schooling and remained committed to completing my education. I was determined to complete matric even though I was blind.”

Thireshni said in preparation for the final examinations, she created summaries for each of her subjects throughout the year, and watched relevant YouTube videos. 

“I also made sure that all my assessments were completed on time.”

To manage her stress levels, she ensured she spent time on her hobbies. 

“I enjoy listening to e-books and music, as well as beading.”

Thireshni also dealt with various challenges throughout her matric year. 

“In June last year, my uncle passed away, and then in August I fractured my ankle. My dad also underwent heart bypass surgery during the final examination. It was a difficult year filled with pain, but I overcame it all.”

Her advice to the matric class of 2026: “Study well, but also make time to rest.”

Thireshni said her goal was to open a spa.

“I am taking a well-structured gap year to do short courses on everything dealing with opening a spa, and then I intend on pursuing my further higher education studies in business management in 2027." 

Thireshni also received the Dux Award and Cedric Hilson Award at her school.

She added that she was grateful for the support of her parents and family members. 

Her mother, Geraldine Padayachee, said she and her husband, Kuben, were “incredibly proud” of their daughter.

“We are proud of the young woman she has become. Her Bachelor degree pass, with strong A and B results, is a reflection of her determination, resilience, and quiet perseverance. Her matric journey had many challenges, but she remained focused,” said Geraldine. 

Kuben added: “She has shown us that hard work, discipline, and faith in yourself truly pays off. This achievement is only the beginning, and we know she has a bright future.”

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