BACHOK: A decade-long journey filled with trials and perseverance finally reached its pinnacle today when Dr Fadhilahanim Aryani Abdullah, 45, received her Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Entrepreneurship — a moment she described as the most meaningful milestone of her life.
Her journey that began in 2015 was tested with extraordinary challenges when she was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2017, which later spread to her bones (stage 4) in 2023.
A lecturer at Universiti Malaysia Kelantan (UMK), Fadhilahanim said the day marked not only an academic achievement but also a personal victory over adversity.
“This has been a long journey for me, almost 10 years filled with trials and health struggles. Today is a very memorable day, the finishing line of my PhD studies.
“My feelings are mixed, happy and moved as I’ve finally managed to earn my PhD,” she said after the First Session of the 15th UMK Convocation here today.
Throughout her ordeal, Fadhilahanim not only completed her thesis and research but also endured two major surgeries, 22 rounds of chemotherapy, 20 radiotherapy sessions and numerous other treatments that tested her physically and mentally.
“It was a struggle throughout this PhD journey, but I kept going because I knew I had to finish it. My husband was my pillar of strength who helped me face every challenge.
“When I was unwell, my husband told me to rest but always reminded me that whatever it takes, I have to finish my PhD, and finally, Alhamdulillah, I have succeeded,” she said.
Fadhilahanim also shared life lessons from the experience, emphasising that every challenge is a test from God.
“God has blessed us with so much sustenance, sometimes He takes it away, little by little. In my case, it was my health being tested. Whatever the challenges we face, perhaps it is the path to heaven.
“So, whatever you do, grasp the embers until they become charcoal in the end. Don’t do the job halfway,” added Fadhilahanim.
– BERNAMA
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
