'Tenacious' Student Dennis Newlove Graduates In Hospice Following Terminal Cancer Battle

'His relentless drive is incredible - it amazes me.'

A terminally ill student has been rewarded for his “relentless drive” with a private graduation ceremony in his hospice.

Friends, family, nursing staff and academics gathered around Northampton University undergraduate Dennis Newlove for the emotional celebration at Cynthia Spencer Hospice on Thursday.

The 28-year-old began studying health studies and social care at the university in 2014, shortly after he was diagnosed with throat cancer.

Terminally ill student Dennis Newlove graduated in his hospice last week
Terminally ill student Dennis Newlove graduated in his hospice last week
University of Northampton

Despite bravely battling the disease throughout his course, the cancer sadly spread around Newlove’s body before becoming terminal.

After he was admitted to hospice care earlier this month, the “inspirational” student’s lecturers decided to organise a private graduation for him ahead of July’s main ceremony.

“There cannot be an exact expression to describe how I feel today,” Newlove said after receiving his degree. “Today is the best, and the beginning of the best to come.

The 28-year-old achieved a 2:1 in his degree, despite his cancer diagnosis
The 28-year-old achieved a 2:1 in his degree, despite his cancer diagnosis
University of Northampton

“Studying for this degree has been very challenging, considering my health, but the university has proved to me that any challenge can be beaten.”

Newlove, who wrote about his condition in his dissertation, received a 2:1 for his degree.

In a touching speech, university lecturer Sindy Banga commended him for being “resilient, patient, determined, strong, positive and optimistic”.

The ceremony was the first time the hospice has held a graduation
The ceremony was the first time the hospice has held a graduation
University of Northampton

“We, your tutors, would like to say... that it has been an absolute privilege and pleasure to work with you and get to know you.”

Newlove’s friend Leticia Asumang, who attended the ceremony, said she was “not surprised at all” that he completed his degree, despite his serious illness.

“His tenacity and his relentless drive is incredible – where he gets it from, I don’t know, it amazes me,” she said.

Newlove says he is determined to attend next month's main ceremony
Newlove says he is determined to attend next month's main ceremony
University of Northampton

“I have never known a more positive person than Dennis. When I’m down, he lifts me up.”

According to staff, the ceremony was the first time they have organised a graduation for one of their patients.

Despite the early presentation of his degree, Newlove said he was “determined” to attend the main graduation ceremony next month.

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