Steve was recently diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and has begun treatment. The diagnosis came quickly and unexpectedly, and our family is adjusting to a new normal filled with treatments, treatment plans, bloodwork, transfusions, and calls with oncologists. Our biggest priority is helping Steve put his energy toward healing, resting, staying nourished, maintaining his strength, and getting through treatment. That’s where his Pit Crew comes in. Nourishing meals are a huge help, but support doesn’t always have to come in a casserole dish. 😊 Visits and companionship are welcome, too. When Steve is feeling well enough and his medical team says it’s appropriate, having someone stop by and take a short walk outside with him would be wonderful. Staying gently active, getting some fresh air, and having good company can make a long day at home feel a little more normal. Because his immune system may be especially vulnerable during treatment, we’ll also need everyone to be flexible about visits. There may be times when visits aren't possible or plans have to change at the last minute—and, of course, please save your Steve time for another day if you're feeling sick. We are incredibly grateful for everyone who has already reached out, offered to cook, visit, help with everyday things, pray, send good thoughts, or simply remind Steve how loved he is. Every little bit of support lightens the load for our family and gives Steve more energy to focus on getting better. Steve has a whole lot of people in his corner, and we intend to make sure he feels that every step of the way. Thank you for being part of Steve’s Village. ❤️
Meal preferences: We’re focusing on nourishing, whole-food meals that are dairy-free and have no added/refined sugar. Dad loves Mexican flavors! Meals with plenty of cooked vegetables and a good protein source are especially appreciated. Chicken, turkey, beans, lentils, tofu and quinoa are all great. Some meal ideas: turkey or chicken chili, Mexican chicken soup, chicken fajita soup, lentil or vegetable soups, chicken with roasted vegetables and sweet potatoes, quinoa bowls, curries, stews, stuffed sweet potatoes, bean-based dishes, or simple chicken/turkey with vegetables. Foods we’re emphasizing: cooked vegetables, especially broccoli/cauliflower/leafy greens; mushrooms; garlic and onions; beans and lentils; sweet or purple potatoes; whole grains such as quinoa and oats; berries and other whole fruit; nuts/seeds; avocado; olive oil; ginger, turmeric and herbs. Please avoid: processed meats (bacon, sausage, deli meats, hot dogs), highly processed foods, fried foods, sugary desserts/drinks, foods with lots of added sugar, and dairy. Important food-safety note: Because leukemia treatment can suppress his immune system, please use good food-safety practices—wash produce carefully, cook meat completely, avoid unpasteurized ingredients, and please don’t prepare food if you or someone in your household is sick. Freshly prepared meals that can be refrigerated or frozen are ideal. Recipe Ideas: -Turmeric, Ginger, Carrot Soup -Veggie Stir Fry with Tofu or chicken -Red lentil, sweet potato & turmeric soup: red lentils, sweet potato, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, ginger, turmeric, black pepper, spinach or kale and vegetable broth. Finish with lemon and olive oil. -Mushroom–walnut lentil “meat” bowls: cooked lentils sautéed with finely chopped mushrooms, walnuts, onion, garlic, oregano and thyme. Serve over quinoa with roasted broccoli and avocado. -Ginger-garlic tofu stir-fry: tofu + shiitake mushrooms + broccoli + bok choy + red bell pepper + red onion, cooked in sesame oil with fresh ginger, garlic and tamari. Serve over quinoa. -White bean & kale Mediterranean stew: cannellini beans + tomatoes + kale + carrots + celery + onion + lots of garlic + rosemary/thyme + olive oil. Add quinoa if he needs more calories. -Black bean stuffed sweet potatoes: roasted sweet potato topped with black beans, sautéed spinach, avocado, cilantro, lime and pumpkin seeds. -Chickpea vegetable curry: chickpeas + cauliflower + broccoli + spinach + tomato + onion + garlic + ginger + turmeric, cumin and coriander. Use unsweetened coconut milk and serve with quinoa or brown rice. -Turkey + Black Bean Sweet Potato Chili