UAE’s IB student shines despite six months of absence due to health issues

UAE’s IB student shines despite six months of absence due to health issues

'Enduring bracing and spinal fusion surgery helped me develop a depth of character'





A student, forced to take six months out of her International Baccalaureate (IB) classes due to illness, has secured 35 points in her exams, significantly above the global average.

Lujayne Rashid, an 18-year-old Canadian student at Al Bateen Academy, was diagnosed with scoliosis - a gradually increasing curvature of the spine - and had to travel back to Canada for urgent surgery. "Enduring bracing and spinal fusion surgery helped me develop a depth of character that has convinced me that I can do anything that I set my mind to," Lujayne said.

Despite spells of prolonged hospitalisation, she was determined to excel and her commitment paid off. "In spite of the pain, she attempted all subject papers. I was surprised by her motivation despite being in debilitating pain and feeling extremely uncomfortable," said Saher Gaber, Lujayne's mother.

"I am extremely proud that she has done so well. Lujayne is an inspiration to others and an outstanding example of what a human being can achieve if he or she has the determination to succeed and the support of devoted parents, an amazing school, as well as dedicated and helpful