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.
Malcolm uses the Big Step Challenge to reflect on his condition and his situation. Read more
Malcom presents an alternative version of Fish and Chips and talks about why he is taking part in The Big Step Challenge. Read more
Malcolm has an oriental offering for us this week, as always, tweaked to be suitable for those with oesophageal cancer or difficulty swallowing for any other reason. Read more
Malcolm shares his joy at creating the perfect clafoutis! Read more
Malcolm shares some ideas for a summery tapas style platter to share (or enjoy yourself) which he found to be suitable despite his difficulty in swallowing. Read more
Malcolm assesses his strategy to obtain the nutrition he requires with the use of home cooked food by comparing it to his work as a builder. Read more
A quick and tasty soup which suitable for anyone living with dysphagia or oesophageal cancer and which will warm you up during this rather dreary weather. Read more
Malcolm gives us a great little recipe to celebrate National Vegetarian Week and also talks about a mental challenge he was able to overcome. Read more
Malcolm shares some great news about his oesophageal cancer and reminds us to enjoy what we have, every single day. Read more
Malcolm overcomes yet another personal challenge with a sourdough loaf! Read more
Malcolm shares with us a simple little recipe, a message of hope and a renovation project! Read more
Malcolm's journey with oesophageal cancer isn't an easy one, but he faces the challenges with determination as always. Read more