A Kintore couple shared a special graduation yesterday after student Callum Crews persevered with his degree despite his wife’s cancer diagnosis.
The 45-year-old collected his award in business management yesterday, as his proud wife Carolyn, 43, watched on proudly.
Mr Crews revealed that as his course induction day drew closer, his wife was diagnosed with cancer for the second time in two years.
Unsure if he could carry on with his studies, he spoke to course leader Susan Lawrie, who gave him the reassurance and encouragement he needed to know the university would support him wherever it could.
Mr Crews said he had always wanted to go to university but never found the time in his youth.
“The support from the lecturers, especially Susan Lawrie, has been absolutely fantastic. She has been a great source of support for me,” he said.
“Carolyn has been through her operation, she is in the clear and just getting back on her feet again.
“It has been extra special today.”
And Mrs Crews was delighted to be there to watch her husband take to the stage after all his hard work.
“It was great,” she said.
“I’m very proud of him because I was so ill last year and he still managed to get all his assessments in on time. He did very well.
“I think it’s a good thing to show our boys; even if you don’t manage to get to university when you’re younger, you can do it when you’re older.”
