Pharmacy Q&A

A day in the life of Pharmacist: Lize Cornelius

Get to know your friendly MediRite pharmacist!

Q: Tell us a bit about your journey to becoming a pharmacist

A: I knew I wanted to become a pharmacist since the age of 15. During my school years loved studying Biology, Maths and Chemistry. The way people reacted and their emotions were important to me. My childhood questions focused on themes like: how does a Panado work and how does it know where to go to ease the pain? 

I studied Pharmacy at the North West University and loved the academic as well as the practical side.

After 14 years as pharmacist in a state hospital, a private pharmacy and a retail pharmacy I can ruly say that I have learned a lot and I am still learning. I want to do nothing else and for me that is a privilege, especially here at MediRite Pharmacy.

I still love to explain how a Panado works!

Q: What’s your fave MediRite product for staying healthy?

A: Medirite’s Immune Guard tablets (with Probiotics, Echinacea, Beta-glucans, Garlic and Vitamin C) - to support my immune system. Medirite’s Magnesium Powder – to help recover my muscles after strenuous exercise.

Q: What’s the most common query from patients at the pharmacy?

A: A lot of patients are complaining about stomach ache/burning sensation in the stomach or being nauseous. The most common cause of these symptoms is increased stomach acid that irritates the stomach wall, and the increase in stomach acid is caused by stress.  Without realising, a lot of us are affected by a fast-paced life and increased pressure.  Another very common ailment is allergies... especially in Somerset West and surroundings! 

Patients sometimes really only need somebody to speak to about their life problems when they are vulnerable and ill, and the pharmacist also attends to this as far as possible.

Q: What allergy tips can you give us for the season?

A: Use a cortisone nasal spray every morning (especially on windy days) and drink a good long-acting antihistamine daily.  Rinse your sinuses daily with Salex SSR.  And try to avoid allergens by closing car windows and not keeping flowers in the house.

Q: Are there any patient experiences that have left a lasting impact on you as a pharmacist?

A: Emergency help to someone who badly needs it, really has an impact on my life. Nearby stores often call in the nearest pharmacist when somebody faints or needs medical attention. One feels humbled to know that helping with a Disprin and sending the person to the nearest hospital can save a heart patient's life. 

Advice on medication has also helped patients to live a better, healthier life and that of course always makes a pharmacist’s day. 

Grumpy people sometimes become friends. Yes! I have made lots of friends along the way! It always affects my life when being involved with cancer patients (or other patients with life-threatening diseases) and their loved ones. I have seen lots of real love and care and of course this has an impact on my life too. 

Addiction is something a pharmacist must deal with, and it impacts you when you can walk the honest way with a patient, helping them taper their medication and assisting them on the way to rehabilitation.