Shauna is ‘over the moon’ to graduate after cancer diagnosis

Shauna Lawson, who is to graduate later today with a BA (Hons) in Film Studies and Production, said that study kept her focused following her diagnosis.

Shauna’s university experience had many hurdles, as she was living in a family homeless hostel when she first applied to do a degree.

A single mum of two, she studied full time and worked throughout her three years at Queen’s and then was diagnosed with breast cancer during the final year of her degree

“When I was diagnosed in February my professors were made aware, and I started to attend my lectures via video link,” Shauna said. “This was before lockdown and it became the norm. Words of encouragement and support were offered by staff which helped my determination to graduate.

“Study kept me focused and my degree would carry me through the difficult times knowing that through this hardship and uncertainty I may just reach my dream regardless.”

Shauna had a mastectomy in June and the surgery was a success.

“Micro cancer cells which were found in one of the lymph nodes were removed, meaning the cancer was caught in time before it spread and the mastectomy saved my life.”

Shauna said that graduating felt like a ‘distant dream’ when she first applied to Queen’s.

“As a single parent studying full-time and working throughout the three years at Queen’s, my experience was not without its hurdles.

“When I first applied to Queen’s in 2017 I was living in a family homeless hostel in Belfast after moving from my home city of Derry. I now have a beautiful home that I’ve settled into recently. To receive my degree today seemed like a distant dream back then, and it means everything to me.”

Shauna will celebrate her virtual graduation day and receiving a 2:1 in her degree with her sons, Brandon and Cameron, who couldn’t be prouder of their inspirational mum.

“Graduating has made me feel proud of myself, overcoming so much and reaching a goal that will allow me to continue further education and open opportunities for the future, I’m really over the moon.

“I’m incredibly proud of myself, and of everyone graduating, as none of us were without hurdles.”

After her graduation, Shauna intends on to enjoy life and spend some quality time with her family.

She will begin a Master’s degree in Cultural Heritage and Museum Studies in September.