Couple opens community kitchen near hospital, allowing cancer patients to have meals prepared by their families

A couple in China is making a difference for families of cancer patients by running a “community cancer kitchen” near a hospital in Nanchang.

For 20 years, Wan Zuocheng and Hong Gengxiang have provided meals and support to caregivers.

Their hard work is now receiving national recognition, bringing their story beyond the small alley where it started.

“No matter what life throws at you, you have to eat,” Mr. Wan told South China Morning Post.

For just 3 Yuan, people can use the kitchen spaces the couple created in the alley to prepare meals.

Some cook for patients who prefer homemade food over hospital meals, while others make meals for caregivers.

Wan and Hong originally ran a restaurant next to the Jiangxi Cancer Hospital in 1993. After the building was torn down, they shifted to running a breakfast stall in front of the former location.

Wan said the idea for their charity kitchen came to them in 2003. “There was a couple who came to us with their child,” he said.

Wan shared that a family once approached them, saying their child preferred a meal made by his mother over treatment. In response, they allowed the family to use their kitchen.

As demand grew, they expanded their stall with more stoves, ovens, and utensils, leading to higher water, electricity, and coal costs.

Thankfully, community support increased alongside their expenses, enabling them to continue their vital service.

Donations have surpassed their costs, and nearly 10,000 people now use the cancer kitchen to prepare meals for cancer patients.

Wan told China Daily that he and the patients have formed a close bond. He explained that without the patients, they would feel lonely, and the patients would struggle without their support.

Many visitors to the cancer kitchen are patients and their families dealing with difficult situations.

For example, a man in his 50s spent three years in the hospital, where he formed a bond with Wan in the kitchen.

When his health declined, doctors suggested he go home. Before leaving, he asked for one last meeting with Wan, and they shared an emotional embrace and tears during their farewell.

“I will help them as long as I am able to,” said Wan.

In 2019, the local government supported the renovation of the “cancer kitchen,” relocating it indoors and adding over 20 cooking stations and ventilators.

The couple decided to skip the “People Who Moved China in 2020” award ceremony to continue providing kitchen services to patients during the Spring Festival holiday.

This annual television program, launched by China Central Television in 2003, honors the country’s 10 most inspiring individuals or groups each year.

Cancer and home-cooked meal

Food is vital in Chinese culture, much like in many other cultures worldwide. In some areas of China, people often greet each other by asking if they have eaten yet rather than just inquiring about their well-being.

Studies indicate that a positive mindset can boost the chances of overcoming cancer, and receiving a home-cooked meal from a loved one can be a significant source of encouragement.

Home-cooked meals provide comfort and warmth but also have health benefits, including potential cancer prevention, said Solaris Cancer Care.

A 2015 study of 9,000 participants found that individuals who cooked six to seven times a week consumed about 2,160 calories daily, which included roughly 81 grams of fat and 119 grams of sugar.

In contrast, those who cooked only once a week or less averaged 2,300 calories, with 86 grams of fat and 135 grams of sugar.

Interestingly, the study revealed that the weight-loss goals of regular cooks did not impact these findings, indicating that home cooking is generally a healthier option than takeaway or frozen meals.

Fast food meals can be high in calories, averaging about 1,200 calories each. Since women typically need between 1,600 to 2,400 calories a day and men require around 2,000 to 3,000, one fast-food meal can take up a large part of the daily limit, contributing to weight gain.

In contrast, cooking at home gives people better control over their meals, making it easier to monitor calorie intake. Home cooks can also customize recipes by using healthier ingredients.

Research indicates a strong connection between weight and cancer risk. Being overweight or obese increases the likelihood of developing various cancers, including those of the breast, colon, endometrium, pancreas, liver, and kidneys.

Individuals can lower their risk of cancer and other health problems by preparing their own meals and maintaining a balanced diet.

Here’s the Chinese couple behind the kitchen that helps cancer patients and families heal: