“Reading this account of Azeem’s “life story” is sometimes difficult. He and his family have been severely tested by the challenges thrown at them. He is sometimes angry–who wouldn’t be! But by reading this account we may be able to share a small part of the difficulties faced by
those who are disabled. We may not be able to “walk a mile in my shoes,” but we can share a few steps, share his experiences, and share the support and love he has received from his family.The quiet courage shown by Azeem and his family outweighs the anger, and will be the strength that he requires to go on. This account shows that he now has his own opinions, his own aspirations, and the determination to overcome future challenges.
He has already fulfilled one of his first ambitions. He is “an inspiration to others with disabilities,” and I believe that he is also an inspiration to the non-disabled segment of society. This account of his life, from his perspective, will enlighten us all and perhaps cause us to be more sensitive to the challenges that the disabled encounter on a daily basis.”
Dr. John Edmonds M.D., B.S., F.R.C.P.C.
“As someone who has coped with a disability for most of my life, I have been moved and touched by this profound recounting of Azeem’s courageous life journey. Where others would have quit, Azeem mustered strength from his family and his faith to overcome profound difficulties and be an inspiring example of true success”
David Onley – Science and Technology Specialist, City TV and Member of the Terry Fox Hall of Fame.
“Refreshing, natural, straightforward and direct from the heart. It is one of the most moving and captivating accounts I have ever read. Azeem’s relentless determination and drive to succeed in spite of his multiple disabilities give great moral strength to both the able and the disabled”
Shamoon Mohammed –Educator, Radio and Television Broadcaster, Trinidad and Tobago
Hello Azeem. My name is Shusila Maraj and I am from Trinidad. My husband bought a copy of your book and I just finished reading it last night. Once I started reading it I couldn’t stop, and I would anxiously await bed time just to continue reading your book each night.
Azeem, I must tell you this. Your book is wonderful. I learnt so much and I must say that you are indeed a blessing to us all. I am a school teacher and I am glad to have read this book because it has opened my eyes to so many things that I never thought about before.
Azeem, you have a blessed family. Reading about the dedication of your parents and about your hunger to succeed at everything, has given me a new focus on some simple things in life.
I cannot say all the things I want to say about you and your book because it will take forever to finish. It is wonderful. Everyone should read it. Children should read it to learn about dedication to school and education. Parents should read it to learn about courage. Doctors should read it to learn about caring. Teachers should read it to learn about equality in the classroom. Physically challenged persons should read it to learn about success and I can go on and on… You are a wonderful person and I must say that you are really blessed.
After I finished reading you book I put it down, then took it up again and turned to the back and looked at your picture and I smiled. I then opened it and saw your writing “Thank You Azeem Kayum” on the first page and I then felt honored to have something which was actually written and signed by you. I then whispered “God bless you Azeem…”
Your book is an inspiration and I will tell everyone to get a copy because I am not lending mines! (smile) May God continue to bless you and your wonderful family. I have made a promise to remember you and your family each day in my prayers. It is the beauty of people like you that makes the world a better place to live in.
Azeem, thank you again and may God bless. Take care.
Shusila.
Hello Azeem! My name is Amrita Singh. My mother was at the mosque
yesterday and obtained a copy of your book.When she brought it home I immediately starting reading it. I did not put the book down until I was finished reading it completely.
First of all, I would like to thank you for sharing your story. You have given me a new outlook on how society treats our disabled people and how I as a person can help to make a more accepting atmosphere for people of all walks of life.
I am currently 19 years old and am attending University of Toronto. I think it was especially important for me to read your book as I volunteer at the Queensway hospital, where I must interact with many terminally ill or continuing care patients. I volunteer as a music therapist and play flute and piano for patients. I deal with a wide range of patients varying in age and condition. Many of them are as you refer to them are “vegetables” but also use the trache.
Although I try my very best to treat all the patients at the hospital with the respect and dignity they deserve, I don’t always get the point of view that you have shown in your book which is that all people have feelings.
You refer to many people as having the characteristic of being normal. I view normal as being a state of mind. Sometimes I feel like I don’t fit in and question if I’m normal! Many people deal with this issue or normality-especially teenagers and young adults. I would just like to say that I view you not in terms of normality, but as a remarkable individual whose strength and determination have been very inspiring. Thank you for your time, and I hope to hear from you.
Sincerely, Amrita
Book Orders:
Azeem’s autobiography, “Wrestling with the Goddess – A Personal Odyssey” can be ordered through the following links:
