Chrizé Boonzaier is cancer-free and looking forward to meeting all her 2026 goals. Picture: Shelley Christians/UWCWhen Chrizé Boonzaier stepped onto campus as a first-year BSc Sport Science student last year, she had no idea that she would have to overcome more than just the academic challenges that lay ahead. It was early in that year that she was diagnosed with stage 1 aggressive cancer. Her cancer diagnosis felt life-changing, and her perspective on her academic journey at the University of the Western Cape (UWC), along with the health challenges she faced, was something she needed to manage very early on.
She was positive at the start of her first year, and at the time, Boonzaier explained: “At first, I didn't want to tell anyone. I wanted to fight this battle on my own. But then I was told I would start losing my hair and would soon have to shave my head after the first round of chemotherapy. That’s when it became clear I couldn’t keep it hidden. I started by sharing the news with the people closest to me - my family first, and then my friends here on campus. As word spread among family and friends, I realised I couldn’t personally tell everyone before they found out from someone else. Looking back now, I am grateful that I chose to open up, and today I can speak about my diagnosis and journey with confidence.”
After gruelling chemotherapy sessions, in October 2025, she got the news that she was cancer-free.
“My first year was definitely challenging, especially during exam periods. There were times when I missed tests and had to write supplementary exams due to chemotherapy sessions. Despite this, I still had a very meaningful and memorable first year,” she said.
“I'm proud that I was able to push through those challenges and still achieve academic results that I'm happy with. The experience taught me resilience, discipline and how to adapt under pressure.”
Boonzaier had the support of family, friends and the UWC community as she documented her health journey on social media. The response was overwhelming and a source of comfort as she endured the effects of the chemotherapy. Now, she’s kicked off 2026 with a sense of purpose. She wants to play Western Province Action Netball, run her first half-marathon, and continue living a healthy, balanced lifestyle. She also hopes to build on last year's success and perform even better academically. Furthermore, she wants to be more intentional about making time for the people and activities that are important to her.
For any first-year student currently dealing with health issues or treatment, Boonzaier shares some sage wisdom: “My biggest advice would be to remind yourself that you are doing better than you think. Keep going, even when it feels extremely tough and overwhelming. There will be days when the challenges feel never-ending, but those moments do pass. For me, my faith helped me. Trust that there's a bigger plan and purpose behind what you are going through. Most importantly, be kind to yourself and take things one step at a time.”
UWC offers a range of services and support networks for students who need assistance. You can contact the Centre for Student Support Services HERE.
