Insights from a Year of Nourishing Cancer Recoveries at Culinary Care
A heartfelt reflection from Haylie Gulasey, Culinary Care Marketing Director
As I mark my one-year anniversary as Marketing Director at Culinary Care, I find myself reflecting on the past year with immense gratitude and awe at the incredible impact this organization has had on the lives of those navigating cancer.
Over the past 365 days, I've witnessed firsthand the transformative power of our mission, and I want to take a moment to share the lessons I've learned during my inaugural year at Culinary Care. Read on as I discuss the importance of access to nutritious meals, highlight the profound power of community support, and express my gratitude for being part of such a compassionate and devoted community that provides strength, support, and hope to those with cancer.
1. I’ve Learned That Most Hospitals Don’t Provide Meals During Outpatient Care
I always thought that during cancer treatment, patients could at least order food off of a hospital menu. But in the past year, I learned that unfortunately, most hospitals don’t provide meals during outpatient care.
I have the pleasure of speaking with our patients, and I discovered that before Culinary Care, many were skipping lunch to undergo treatment.
No one should have to skip lunch to get the treatment they need.
Fortunately, Culinary Care steps in to address this gap and provide quality food that can dramatically improve treatment results.
“When I used to come for chemo, I didn’t have anything to eat and would leave feeling nauseous and tired. But since I’ve been receiving Culinary Care, I feel very good and have more energy. These people are angels on earth!”
2. I’ve Learned That Little Gestures Make A Big Impact
In the face of cancer, small acts of kindness can have a profound impact on patients and their families. That’s why the little things, like heartfelt cards and Chemo Care Kits thoughtfully assembled by our incredible Corporate Partners, bring immense joy and comfort to those undergoing treatment.
These simple gestures remind patients that they are not alone in their fight and provide a much-needed source of joy and encouragement during difficult times.
>> Interested in becoming a Corporate Partner? Learn more here!
3. I’ve Learned That There Is A Critical Gap In Cancer Care: Malnutrition
Nearly 350 cancer patients lose their lives to malnutrition daily. It’s a sobering statistic, but it's a reality hundreds of families face every single day.
This serves as a stark reminder of the critical need for Culinary Care. By providing high-quality, nutritious food prepared by top restaurants, we help improve treatment outcomes and enhance the overall well-being of cancer patients and their families.
“In just one month of receiving your meals during his treatments, I’ve already seen Mark’s weight increase! Thank you for what you do!”
4. I’ve Learned The Transformative Power Of Monthly Giving
Monthly donors play a pivotal role in sustaining nonprofit missions and ensuring the longevity of programs and services. Consistent donations, regardless of size, add up to make a big impact. By being able to count on monthly support, organizations can broaden their impact and explore new avenues for growth.
At Culinary Care, our incredible members of The Line, our monthly giving community, form the backbone of our support system, allowing us to extend our reach to more individuals and families battling cancer. Their contribution combines with others to form a powerful force for positive change. It truly makes a huge difference!
>> Interested in becoming a member of The Line? Join today!
5. I’ve Learned That Showing Up Matters
Showing up for people and causes you care about matters because it is a tangible expression of your commitment, compassion, and support. Whether through physical presence, financial contributions, sharing information, or acts of kindness, showing up actively demonstrates your dedication to making a positive impact. You not only uplift and empower others but also contribute to creating a more compassionate and supportive world.
It has been heartwarming to witness this community's unwavering commitment to showing up—be it our compassionate Corporate Partners, kind-hearted restaurants and chefs, dedicated members of The Line, incredible Board members, or wonderful volunteers. Together, we form a compassionate network of individuals united in our shared commitment to providing hope, healing, and support for those with cancer.
6. I’ve Learned That Fighting Cancer Takes More Than Medicine
In the fight against cancer, there are many essential ingredients that medicine alone cannot provide.
This reality highlights the importance of Culinary Care. Yes, we provide nourishing meals, but we also strive to alleviate stress, ignite joy, and cultivate a sense of community—all of which research shows increase cancer survival rates.
“Culinary Care makes me happy and puts a big smile on my face (which is something that doesn’t happen often during my chemo). Thank you for adding a bit of joy to my treatment day!”
7. I’ve Learned That Cancer Is Personal
Cancer touches the lives of countless individuals, whether through personal experience or the experiences of loved ones. It's this shared experience that drives our community to come together and make a tangible difference in the lives of those facing cancer.
This leads me to my next learning…
8. I’ve Learned The Importance Of Community
We received a touching message from a woman who wrote, "Thank you for the birthday card today. It was the only card I received. It seems everyone forgot about my birthday amidst everything they have going on." Loneliness has become a widespread health issue, and it can affect anyone. However, a cancer diagnosis can exacerbate feelings of isolation, with over half of cancer patients grappling with profound loneliness—a factor that can adversely affect survival rates.
Loneliness knows no bounds—it can touch anyone. If you've found yourself grappling with loneliness or seeking to become part of a community, I encourage you to consider joining The Line. Becoming a monthly donor means joining like-minded individuals united by a shared passion for making a difference. You'll become part of a supportive network committed to combatting loneliness, fostering inclusivity, and ensuring that no one faces cancer alone.
I am feeling very grateful for the opportunity to be part of such a compassionate and devoted community. Together, we're not just delivering meals; we're providing strength, support, and hope to families with cancer while improving treatment outcomes. I can’t wait to see what the next year has in store, and I look forward to continuing to nourish cancer recoveries for many years to come!
Sincerely,
