Hollywood praise for cancer patients’ book
A COOKBOOK written by Welsh cancer patients and their families has already won praise for its generous fundraising aims – and now it’s also gained the seal of approval from a Hollywood star.
For some people living with a cancer diagnosis, eating can be a struggle, and some can no longer enjoy the taste of their favourite foods.
But now Velindre NHS Trust has joined forces with patients, their loved ones and some of Wales’ finest chefs to create a book packed with happy memories and delicious dishes.
The inspirational work, which shares personal stories from its contributors, has gone on to win praise from Welsh star Michael Sheen.
The Twilight actor said: “I heard about the cookbook from my friend Rhod Gilbert and wanted to do something to help.
“Cancer is one of the hardest battles we can face in life. For those going through treatment, it can completely strip you of your appetite or make you focus on nutritional aspects of eating to support your treatment. “But it doesn’t have to be like this.” The inspiration for the book came from patients at Cardiff’s Velindre Cancer Care, including Amal Beyrouty, whose Lebanese dish was dedicated to her late sister, Amna.
The chosen dish was Amna’s favourite meal, and it evoked lovely memories for Amal of family gatherings around the dinner table.
Sheen added: “What makes this cookbook so special is that the recipes were written by cancer patients and their families with a view to helping others undergoing treatment to be able to enjoy these simple pleasures and experience some respite in their treatment and care.
“Many of the dishes included in the book have been passed from one generation to another. It’s these stories, coupled with fantastic recipes, that make this book so special.”
The book is now on sale for £10, with all proceeds going to Velindre Cancer Centre.