A first-year student of the North-West University (NWU) who obtained eight distinctions in her matric year in spite of a major setback, recently shared a special message with the community.

Sam Pretorius (19), who is studying towards her BSc degree in chemistry and mathematics, was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in 2016. In spite of the side effects of the treatment, she still passed her matric with flying colours at Hoërskool Zwartkop in Centurion.

Sam decided to raise awareness for MS during the week that international MS Day (31 May 2017) is celebrated. She distributed special T-shirts with the words I am strong on the NWU’s campus in Potchefstroom.

Members of the campus management and the student council were among the first people that she approached.

Sam is a resident of Minjonet ladies hostel.

Members of management and the student council on the NWU’s campus in Potchefstroom with Sam Pretorius. From left are Theo Cloete, Danie Stoop, Sam, Prof Fika Janse van Rensburg (acting rector), Prof Rikus Fick, Marelize de Lange and Paul Maritz (student council president).