Helping to whet the appetite of people living with blood cancer.

Celebrating its 4th consecutive year, Cooking for Chemo was initiated by Le Cordon Bleu’s admission manager Karen Spavin, who was just 11 years old when her father was diagnosed with blood cancer and given three months to live.

The Leukaemia Foundation’s support services had a profound impact on Karen and her parents over the years. As well as transporting her dad safely to and from appointments, Karen says the Foundation staff became a part of their family and remains so today, even after her dad’s passing in 2011.

Le Cordon Bleu’s ongoing support during her dad’s illness combined with her position in the organisation presented a logical yet very unique opportunity for Karen to collaborate with the Leukaemia Foundation. The idea of Cooking for Chemo simply evolved enabling Karen to give back to the Foundation in a way that not everyone can.

Focusing on getting people out of the house, Cooking for Chemo provides an opportunity for guests to meet highly skilled chefs who will entertain and educate them in the preparation of easy, tasty and nutritious meals.  The chef’s recipes get a tick of approval, and a dietician and nutritionist provide guidance on chemotherapy compatible food as well as opportunities for guests to discuss their individual situations.