When Mr. Azri first heard the words “colorectal cancer,” he wasn’t just confronted with a diagnosis; he was faced with fear, uncertainty, and a sudden shift in the life he had known. Like many, he had little understanding of the disease before it became personal. What followed was a journey that would test his resilience and reshape his perspective on health, support, and survival.
His story is featured in a recent episode of Buds & Guts, a podcast by CORUM, the Colorectal Cancer Survivorship Society Malaysia. In the episode, Mr. Azri speaks with quiet clarity about his diagnosis, the process of going through chemotherapy and surgery, and the emotional weight of navigating a disease that often goes undetected until it’s advanced.
What makes his story compelling is not just the medical facts, but the human reality behind them. He talks about moments of doubt, the strength he drew from his family, and the importance of having access to information and care at the right time. There is no dramatisation, just honest reflection from someone who has lived the experience.
Alongside Mr. Azri’s account, consultant colorectal surgeon Dato’ Dr. Meheshinder Singh offers context on the disease, its symptoms, progression, and treatment. He emphasises that colorectal cancer, while serious, is highly treatable if detected early. Unfortunately, stigma and lack of awareness continue to delay diagnosis for many in Malaysia and across the region.
This is exactly where CORUM’s work becomes vital. As a non-profit focused on awareness, education, and support for survivors, CORUM is sharing stories like Mr. Azri’s and creating pathways for early screening and community-based interventions. Their work bridges the gap between medical care and everyday lives, making survivorship visible and possible.
The podcast episode is more than just a personal narrative. It reminds us that cancer doesn’t discriminate by age, background, or lifestyle and that survival often begins with awareness. As Mr. Azri puts it, the decision to get screened may seem small, but it can be lifesaving.
The whole episode is available on CORUM’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DnX4pquqbO8
CORUM invites individuals, healthcare providers, and organisations, both local and international, to collaborate in building a stronger network of awareness, access, and care. To learn more or get involved, please visit www.corum.com.my or contact us via email at info@corum.com.my