KUALA LUMPUR: At just 20 years old, Tan Hao Enn became the youngest participant in Universiti Malaya's Silent Mentor programme by donating his body for medical research.
According to a report by 'Sin Chew Daily', Hao Enn made this decision after being diagnosed with Desmoplastic small round cell tumours (DSRCT), a rare form of cancer, at 17.
The survival rate averages less than a year after diagnosis, with no definitive cure available.
During his three-year battle, Hao Enn underwent surgery to remove a malignant tumour in his abdomen, followed by chemotherapy, radiotherapy and immunotherapy.
However, the cancer continued to spread rapidly, with frequent relapses.
His father, Tan Jun Bin, described his son as a kind, cheerful, and optimistic young man before his diagnosis.
"He rarely expressed his worries and displayed remarkable resilience, aided by a decade of martial arts training."
However, the side effects of intensive treatments, combined with his declining health and the inability to undergo a stem cell transplant, took a toll on his physical and metal health.
He struggled with depression and even contemplated ending his life.
Hao Enn's decision to donate his body for medical research became a source of hope and purpose, helping him combat negative emotions.
His family supported his decision, with his father, grandmother, and grandfather also signing up to donate their bodies for the programme.
"Life and death are just a thought apart. I hope you will do your utmost to save every patient.
"If you fail, face it fearlessly," said Hao Enn in a message he left for medical students upon joining the programme.
His body will be used in a five-day workshop for medical students in May or June this year.
After the workshop, his ashes will be returned to his family for a funeral.