Portuguese 
Spanish 
Even hospitalized with a rare disease, 17-year-old Ítalo Cantanhede Rodrigues took the Enem and secured a spot in medicine.
Taking the Enem in a hospital and still securing a spot in medicine may seem unlikely, but that is exactly what 17-year-old Ítalo Cantanhede Rodrigues from Pará achieved after facing a rare disease. The student took the exam in São Paulo, during intensive treatment, with court authorization to ensure safe conditions.
Even in isolation and under medical care, he maintained his preparation and participated in the exam. The result came with three approvals in public universities, marking a journey of overcoming. The case gained prominence for highlighting how determination and support can transform adverse scenarios.
Approval in medicine came even during treatment for the rare disease
The result of the Enem brought a significant achievement. The young man secured approval in medicine at three public institutions. The spots were at UFPA, UEPA, and UFRJ. After the announcement, he chose to enroll at the University of the State of Pará, with classes set to begin in 2026.
-
Coastal City in Rio de Janeiro Faces Slow Destruction as Sea Claims 500 Homes and Businesses
-
48-Year-Old Woman Wins Million-Dollar Prize, Gifts Neighbor First International Trip as Thanks for Years of Support
-
Women Once Mocked for Collecting Trash Form Group to Turn Organic Waste into Compost, Generate Daily Income, and Improve Market Cleanliness in One of the World’s Lowest GDP per Capita Countries
-
Archaeologists Uncover 40,000 Roman Bronze and Copper Coins from the 3rd Century in Fire-Destroyed French Neighborhood
To take the Enem, the young man needed judicial authorization. This was because the treatment for the rare disease required strict isolation. The exam was administered inside the hospital, following medical protocols. In this way, he was able to participate without compromising his health.
The young man’s routine changed in 2025, after being diagnosed with severe aplastic anemia. The rare disease affects blood cell production. To begin treatment, he had to leave Belém and go to São Paulo. There, he underwent chemotherapy and remained hospitalized for long periods.
Transplant was a decisive step in the treatment of the rare disease
The fight against the rare disease included a bone marrow transplant. The donor was his younger sister, with total compatibility. Before the procedure, the young man underwent preparation with chemotherapy. After the transplant, he faced a recovery period with a weakened immune system.
Even during treatment, the young man did not abandon his studies for the Enem. He received remote support from the school. This support helped maintain his learning routine. Thus, even with the rare disease, he was able to prepare for the exam.
His experience in the hospital directly influenced his desire to study medicine. The young man began to see the profession from a different perspective. “From the patient’s side, I learned many things about how to act in this profession and how I want to be. I will dedicate myself to treating people in similar situations,” he stated.
Recovery continues after approval in medicine
Even after securing spots in medicine, the young man continues to recover. Medical supervision is still necessary. The return to Belém will depend on the release from the health team. In the meantime, he is preparing to start his degree.
The case highlights the importance of ensuring access to the Enem in special situations. The court authorization was essential for participation. Thus, the young man’s journey shows that the rare disease did not prevent the realization of a dream. The approval in medicine symbolizes this achievement.
With information from the website Só Notícia Boa
