In a world where challenges often serve as roadblocks, there exist individuals whose journeys become beacons of inspiration.
One such individual is Satrohan Surjnarine, the University of Guyana’s Best Graduating Student in the Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy programme.
Satrohan Surjnarine [Photo credit: UG]
A CHILDHOOD DEFINED BY RESILIENCE
Surjnarine’s journey began with a diagnosis at the tender age of four—Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (JRA).
For 25 years, this university graduate faced emotional and physical challenges due to his medical condition. However, his story is not one of despair but of resilience.
I vividly remember there was a period when I spent weeks away from primary school to receive treatment in the hospital. At one point, it was even suggested to my mother by one of my teachers to take me out of school because I was behind in the school’s curriculum and was missing exams, and my grades were starting to decline.
Despite the odds, not only did he secure a spot at St. Roses High School, but he carried his determination through secondary school and into university.
As I ventured into secondary school and then to university, there were many days when I woke up in severe pain, so severe that it would be difficult to even get my routine morning activities of daily living done with ease. Many of these days, I would cry and ask, ‘Why do I have to suffer so much? Why do I have to go through all of this pain?’ I would often sit and look at everyone else being able to move around pain-free and live a happy life, while there was me who never got the opportunity to enjoy my childhood. Even to this day, I am being deprived of the opportunity to have a social life like most persons my age would.
A DREAM FULFILLED DESPITE CHALLENGES
Accepted into the Pharmacy programme in 2019, after completing an Associate’s Degree in Biology, was far from a walk in the park for this 25-year-old.
While battling with my physical challenges and the various side effects of medications, I remained steadfast in my dream of becoming a pharmacist, inspired by my desire to help others, especially individuals with disabilities like myself.
His educational journey was marked by relentless dedication and overcoming hurdles unique to his situation. He became an exemplar of perseverance, finding innovative solutions to accommodate his disability and inspiring colleagues along the way.
A CULMINATION OF RESILIENCE
The crowning achievement of being the best-graduating student of the Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy programme is not just a personal triumph but, according to Satrohan, a beacon of hope for countless individuals facing similar challenges.
My lifestyle should be a mentor, a role model, and a source of hope for those who dare to dream big despite the challenges life may throw at them. I want my journey to remind us all that the pursuit of knowledge, excellence, and the desire to help others can overcome even the most formidable obstacles.
The late Bruce Lee once said, ‘Do not pray for an easy life, pray for the strength to endure a difficult one.’ This is a reminder that the most meaningful and transformative experiences often arise from life’s toughest moments, so always keep your faith in God, do your best, and leave the rest to him.
