Beyond The Diagnosis: Three Colorectal Cancer Survivors Share What Recovery Really Looks Like

A colorectal cancer diagnosis can change life in an instant.

Yet for many survivors, the diagnosis is only the beginning of a much longer journey. Treatment, recovery and adjusting to a new normal often bring physical, emotional and practical challenges that extend well beyond the hospital.

For colorectal cancer survivors Viji Somaskanthan, Jon Yehsi and Pn Maimun, recovery looked different in many ways. However, all three discovered that healing is not simply about overcoming cancer. It is also about learning to adapt, finding support and rebuilding confidence in everyday life.

The Challenges Nobody Sees

For Viji, one of the greatest fears was not the diagnosis itself, but how her body would respond to treatment.

Having heard stories from other cancer patients, she worried about the effects of chemotherapy and radiation. The reality proved difficult. Frequent dehydration, low blood counts and an inability to eat or drink left her repeatedly hospitalised. At one point, she was admitted to a nursing home because she had lost much of her mobility.

Jon also found himself confronting challenges he had never expected. Beyond the physical side effects of treatment, there were emotional struggles that were often harder to discuss openly.

The uncertainty surrounding treatment, concerns about his family and the emotional weight of the diagnosis took a significant toll on his mental wellbeing.

For Pn Maimun, recovery involved adapting to life after multiple surgeries. Having previously survived uterine and skin cancer before later being diagnosed with colorectal cancer, she found herself facing yet another major health challenge. Living with a stoma required adjustment, patience and acceptance, but over time she learned how to manage her condition and regain her independence.

The People Who Helped Them Through

While treatment played an important role in recovery, all three survivors emphasised that support from others made a meaningful difference.

For Viji, that support came first and foremost from her sister. “She was outstanding and my biggest support,” she said.

Her cousins and close friends also rallied around her, offering encouragement, accompanying her to appointments and providing emotional support throughout treatment.

Viji also credits CORUM for helping both her and her sister better understand colorectal cancer. Through conversations with survivors and patients undergoing treatment, they found comfort, practical knowledge and reassurance during an unfamiliar and overwhelming period.

Jon drew strength from his wife, children, church community and fellow survivors who understood what he was experiencing. Knowing that he did not have to navigate the journey alone helped him stay focused on recovery.

For Pn Maimun, support came from her children, extended family and faith. Throughout multiple cancer diagnoses and surgeries, she remained determined to stay positive and focus on what she could control. She believes maintaining a strong spirit and accepting support from loved ones were essential to helping her move forward.

Life Looks Different Today

Cancer changed each survivor in different ways.

For Viji, the experience encouraged healthier habits. She now exercises regularly, pays closer attention to nutrition and makes a conscious effort to stay hydrated.

For Jon, the diagnosis brought a renewed appreciation for life, family and the moments that matter most.

For Pn Maimun, recovery reinforced the importance of resilience and gratitude. Despite facing multiple cancers over the years, she continues to live independently and remains active in her daily life. Her experience serves as a reminder that recovery is not always about returning to life exactly as it was before, but finding the strength to move forward and adapt to a new normal.

More Than Survival

When asked what they would say to others facing colorectal cancer, all three survivors shared a similar message – Do not lose hope.

Recovery won’t be straightforward. There are setbacks, fears and difficult days. Yet their experiences also demonstrate the importance of support, perseverance and seeking help when it is needed.

Cancer may change a person’s life, but it does not define it. For survivors like Viji, Jon and Pn Maimun, recovery is not simply about surviving cancer. It is about continuing to live, adapt and find meaning beyond the diagnosis.

Supporting Patients Beyond Diagnosis

Beyond screening and early detection, access to practical support and reliable information can play an important role in helping patients navigate life after a cancer diagnosis.

Through their partnership, BIG CARING Group and CORUM are also working to support underserved cancer patients through initiatives such as rehabilitation equipment loans, care packs and assistance for eligible patients with stoma care needs.

For more information on available support programmes, please visit https://forms.gle/9xW7KCp1Gq7L7ynu8