Grace achieves a First despite cancer diagnosis
ARU student celebrates graduation after undergoing two operations in her final year
Grace Mbuthia at her graduation ceremony at Chelmsford Cathedral
An Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) student graduated with first-class honours this week, despite being diagnosed with breast cancer in her final year.
Grace Mbuthia, 41, underwent two operations and ongoing cancer treatment while raising three children and studying for her BA (Hons) Working with Children, Families and Communities degree.
Despite constant fatigue, struggling to walk and not being able to drive following her diagnosis at the start of her final year, Grace managed to complete her degree with support from tutors and ARU’s wellbeing team.
Before choosing to study as a mature student at ARU, Grace worked in luxury fashion before taking a career break to be a full-time mother to her children, aged 14, 10 and six. She later ran her own events business, working closely with a wide range of people and managing complex situations. This experience led her to her current role as a carer.
She graduated in front of her partner, parents and children at Chelmsford Cathedral on Wednesday.
Grace, who lives in Basildon, is receiving ongoing preventative treatment as part of her recovery, and is taking on the Moonwalk Marathon in May 2026, in aid of breast cancer charity Walk The Walk.
“Being diagnosed with breast cancer was gut wrenching. There were many moments when I wasn’t sure I would be able to finish my course because everything felt so uncertain.
“Cancer had a big impact on my studies. I missed a lot of classes, couldn’t drive for three months, struggled to walk without pain, had terrible brain fog from treatment, and was constantly fatigued. Concentrating on a screen or reading was nearly impossible at times. I had to write everything down on Post-It notes just to keep track.
“It was hard not to feel left behind. I needed a lot of support coordinating classes and keeping up with work and I’m really grateful to the wellbeing team, lecturers and module leaders who met with me online and supported me at a pace I could manage until I was able to fully complete the course.
“I had to slow down a lot, but giving up was never an option. My three daughters are the biggest reason why, and to graduate in front of them means the world to me.”
Grace MbuthiaGrace’s eldest daughter has hydrocephalus, epilepsy, selective mutism and is autistic, requiring ongoing support. Facing these challenges with her daughter has inspired Grace to look towards a career in children’s social work following graduation.
“Raising my children, and especially having a daughter with additional and complex medical needs, really shaped where my interests were. Walking beside her through her challenges has deepened my empathy and shown me how powerful it is when families feel understood rather than judged.
“I want to bring that same care into my practice and help other children and families feel supported as they navigate systems that can feel overwhelming.”
Grace Mbuthia