But now she is in "wonderful health" and has plenty to celebrate today when she graduates with a bachelor of theology honours degree in a ceremony at the Dunedin Town Hall.
More than 270 graduands will also graduate with degrees and diplomas in arts, law, music and theology, with 233 others graduating in absentia.
"I'm quite amazed. I have to pinch myself that it's real, that I have completed it, with all the physical health problems that I've experienced."
"It's a bit unbelievable. For a while there, I didn't think I would survive."
Five years ago, Ms Kallil - previously known as Suzanne McPhee in her radio reporting days in the 1990s - was at a crossroads in her life.
She had been battling health problems, including breast cancer, since 1999 and was seeking a new direction.
She then spoke to "a really wonderful friend", Fr Mark Chamberlain, one of the university chaplains. He provided some crucial advice, suggesting she undertake a degree in theology.
And she did, studying initially part-time, quickly showing aptitude, and being invited to join the honours group.
"It was a journey. I had hope and I had faith. I believed that God had some input into what I was doing, so I trusted in Him," she said.
Today's graduation will be followed by a family celebration, with son Seth McPhee, who is studying for an Otago bachelor of physical education degree, among the participants.
She is already doing some work as a volunteer hospital assistant chaplain and would like to do more.
"I believe in trying to live each day as fully as possible. My lecturers had a lot of faith in me. And I was encouraged and supported by the love of my friends and family all the way."
