It was a bittersweet day for North-West University (NWU) graduate Lize Marais, who celebrated her academic achievement and marked the final public appearance of her beloved service dog, Holly.
Lize received her Bachelor of Education in Senior and FET Phase in English, on 16 April, with Holly—her steadfast companion since 2018—right by her side. The moment was deeply symbolic, as Holly prepares to retire after nearly a decade of loyal service.
Diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes just before her first birthday, Lize has lived with the condition for most of her life. In 2016, she suffered a severe seizure due to low blood sugar levels and was hospitalised. After two more similar incidents, her mother began searching for alternative ways to help her manage the condition—leading them to Holly.
Holly, once a stray, was rescued and trained for over a year and a half to become Lize’s service dog. Though her exact breed is unknown, they suspect she is a Samoyed cross. “I paid R50 000 for her—funds I raised by selling fudge, which is quite ironic for a diabetic,” Lize says with a laugh.
Holly has been trained to detect changes in Lize’s blood sugar levels by scent. “She alerts me 30 minutes before my meter picks it up, and 15 minutes before my continuous glucose monitor does,” Lize explains. “She scratches my leg or gets very antsy. In extreme cases, she barks—but that’s rare.”
Now nearing ten years old, Holly is preparing for a well-earned retirement. Fortunately, Lize has already started training Nova, a spirited pit bull puppy who will take over Holly’s duties in time.
Reflecting on her time at the NWU, Lize describes the university as incredibly supportive. “The NWU was extremely welcoming to my situation. I’m very grateful,” she says. “I’d encourage students living with similar challenges to go for it—don’t be scared.”
She fondly recalls many special moments with Holly on campus – including one that still makes her giggle. “We once swam in the Ratau Lebone fountains. It wasn’t really allowed, but that’s what made it so much fun,” she says. “Holly loved it too!”
Having majored in English and Afrikaans, Lize is eager to begin her teaching career and hopes to pursue a postgraduate degree next year. “I love working with children and can’t wait to start teaching,” she says.
Outside of her studies, Lize enjoys reading, baking, and exploring new places with Holly. “Holly always gets a treat when I bake—maybe that’s why she’s a little chubby,” she jokes affectionately.
As Holly retires and Nova takes over, Lize’s story reminds us to stay strong, value friendship, and face life’s challenges with courage.
