Cooking Up Comfort
At John Hunter Children’s Hospital in Newcastle, a special Cooking Therapy Program is making a big difference for young cancer patients. Since July 2023, the Foundation has funded all the food and baking supplies for this unique program.
Cooking therapy offers children a chance to enjoy a normal and fun activity while they’re in the hospital. It allows them to pick their favourite foods, help prepare them, and eat them—even from their hospital bed if they can’t leave. This activity not only lifts their mood but also helps with their appetite and fine motor skills. Kids can take part in something fun and meaningful, which improves their mental well-being and helps them feel more in control. Here are a few heartwarming stories from the program:
- A young boy, recently recovering from brain surgery, made chocolate mousse and smiled with joy, despite having trouble speaking.
- A teenager created pancake art shaped like a cat’s face, which helped reignite his appetite.
- An 8-year-old baked a birthday cake for his father, feeling a great sense of achievement.
- Another teenager made pink cookie sandwiches to celebrate a pop star’s visit to Newcastle.
- A girl with food allergies prepared a chocolate coconut slice, giving her a special treat and a distraction from medical procedures.
Parents have praised the program for its positive impact, saying it provides invaluable support. The Kids with Cancer Foundation’s assistance helps turn cooking into a source of comfort and joy for these young patients, making their hospital stay a bit brighter.
