Cooking is For Everyone: Creating an Inclusive Kitchen

When I was injured back in 2012, I felt like my world had turned upside down. As someone who has always been creative and loved cooking, I worried that I would lose that inspiration and energy. But with the help of some amazing occupational therapists and a supportive network of friends and family, I found a way to reignite my passion for food and regain my independence in the kitchen. I'm not a health coach or cooking expert. However, as a seasoned quadriplegic, I want to share some tips and tricks that helped me get back into the kitchen and might help you do the same!

First off, social media can be an amazing source of inspiration and ideas. I started following other quadriplegics around the world who were also adapting their kitchens and finding innovative ways to cook. Watching their cooking methods and learning about different adaptive devices helped me feel more confident in making purchases for myself. I analyzed how they held spatulas using a tenodesis grasp, opened jars with devices or non-slip materials, and cooked meals parallel to the stove while using their core strength. These are a few examples of what I needed to perfect. I began to mimic their adaptations for my own disabilities. That's why I started my own YouTube channel to share the information that I have learned with other people. Do not be afraid to reach out and connect with others in the community for tips and encouragement.

Another important step for me was modifying my kitchen to make it as accessible as possible. Even though most kitchens are not designed with quadriplegics in mind, there are some simple and affordable changes that you can make to turn it into an inclusive space. For example, I needed a convenient place to store my adaptive devices, such as my Quad Knife: an adapted knife strapped around the forearm, used without the need of hand strength. We emptied out a drawer at a reachable height and stored everything in there. We also replaced our island with a roll-under table that can be moved out of the way if I need more room. These modifications made all the difference and created ways for me to access the kitchen.

Learning how to cook opens up a world of possibilities.You can try dishes from different cultures, experiment with new ingredients, and challenge yourself in new ways. Sometimes, the fun and creativity of cooking means adapting recipes to make them work for you. I used to be nervous about cooking pasta, until I found some amazing one-pot meals that don't require draining hot water. I have learned that there is always a way to make recipes work.

Not only is cooking a great way to be creative, it can also improve your health and save money. As someone living with a disability, I know firsthand how important it is to eat well and have control over what goes into my food. By cooking at home, I can make healthier choices and save money by not relying on takeout or pre-made meals. And on days when I'm feeling low on energy, meal prep is a lifesaver.