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Northern Cape man beats rare cancer, paralysis and tragedy to become a doctor

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After serious setbacks, Izak Johan Haarhoff has finally received his medical degree from Walter Sisulu University. He’s now an intern in Klerksdorp. (PHOTO: Supplied)
After serious setbacks, Izak Johan Haarhoff has finally received his medical degree from Walter Sisulu University. He’s now an intern in Klerksdorp. (PHOTO: Supplied)

Securing a medical degree can be an uphill battle and the years of academic slog, gruelling practical training and intense competition have seen many aspiring doctors fall by the wayside. 

If there’s one person who could have been forgiven for dropping out, it’s Izak Johan Haarhoff. The 28-year-old has battled near insurmountable odds that would’ve broken many people: the deaths of loved ones, crippling depression, paralysis and cancer. 

READ MORE | Doctors gave me 48 hours to live – 23 years later I'm still defying the odds

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