You may have seen Malcolm's Story, if you haven't it is well worth taking a few moments to read. It introduces a man with incredible strength and determination who, despite a terminal oesophageal cancer diagnosis, has found a way to retain his zest for life, a large part of which involves finding a way that he can continue to enjoy real food.
Malcolm wasn't previously interested in cooking but, as is the case for many who live with oesophageal cancer, the condition has presented him with much difficulty in swallowing and therefore made it hard to enjoy the flavours and food he loves. This inspired him and through much trial and error and significant determination he has come up with some delicious dishes which have reduced the calories he requires from prescription drinks and, perhaps more importantly have given him joy and satisfaction.
“My view is that we can change the way we view Cancer. Whilst I can, I will let it be the seed that feeds my life with creativity. Don’t view it as the terminator, switch it round and make cancer into a tool”
Malcolm has shared his wealth of ideas (and some of his delicious cooking) with the team at Heartburn Cancer UK and together we have created this blog to share his ideas with you. His only hope is that some of them may be useful. Whilst not everything might be to your taste, we hope that it will give you ideas, inspiration and hope and that, at the very least, some of his hints and tips might make life a little easier for another person.
We hope to add something new each week so do keep checking back and let us know your thoughts.
A take on fish and chips that may be suitable for someone with difficulty swallowing or living with oesophageal cancer. Read more
Roast Dinner, with adjustments to make it suitable for those living with oesophageal cancer or difficulty swallowing. Enjoy! Read more
A few hints and tips about cooking and eating which may help those who have difficulty swallowing. Read more
Notes on a full English breakfast for those living with oesophageal cancer. Read more
A quick easy soup with a tasty side dish and something a little more special...both suitable for those who have difficulty swallowing Read more
A selection of dishes that I have found suitable and delicious as someone living with oesophageal cancer. Read more
A change from my previously mentioned spiralised potatoes and some serving suggestions for those who struggle with swallowing. Read more
A tasty recipe for an Asian broth together with a short reflection on a difficult time - because it's impossible when living with cancer not to have a down day, even when there is so much to live for. Read more
There was a time I thought eating any roast dinner wouldn't be achievable, here are my thoughts having cooked and enjoyed roast pork. Read more
A delicious dessert, made from leftovers to prevent waste and suitable for anyone suffering with dysphagia (or just anyone who likes pudding!) Read more
Some very special friends put so much thought and care into a celebratory meal that, for a day, I forgot I even had cancer. What they enabled me to share will stay with me forever. Read more
I am so enthusiastic regarding life and I have to get the message out there. Don’t just believe what a system expects you to believe, ask yourself questions, examine all the options and choose a path that will get you through, the path that feels right to you. Read more