Description
In Renewed Roots, I share my family's journey through the challenges of diabetes and chronic kidney disease. My dad, a constant source of strength, faced the struggles so many dealing with chronic illness know all too well—dialysis treatments, restrictive diets, and the fight to reclaim a sense of normal routine. We spent countless hours by his side in hospital rooms, watching him endure exhausting four-hour dialysis treatments, three times a week. Then, in 2020, during the global pandemic, we received the incredible gift of a kidney transplant—something we will be forever grateful for.
Through all of this, food always played a central role at our family gatherings. As my dad's health declined, it quickly became a source of stress as caregivers. Every invitation to a family event reminded us of what he could no longer enjoy. The constant worry of finding something healthy and satisfying for him to eat often overshadowed moments that should have been filled with joy and about making memories. In those moments of helplessness, I knew something needed to change.
My mission here is simple: to ease the heavy burdens families and caregivers face when navigating chronic illness and to restore the joy in one of life's simplest pleasures—eating. I also hope to foster a supportive community where we can lean on one another, share our experiences, and find comfort in knowing we are not alone. Through these recipes, I want to provide support to those who need it most, making food one less thing to think about during difficult times.
Beyond offering a collection of over 65 recipes, this book is a reminder of how food can play a healing role in our lives, even when faced with restrictive dietary needs. The recipes in Renewed Roots are vegetarian and vegan friendly, crafted to meet the demands of restrictive diets without sacrificing flavor. By incorporating a wide variety of spices, each meal is full of flavor.
Let this book be your guide, whether you're managing a chronic condition or simply seeking flavorful choices. Together, we can embrace food as a source of healing, transformation, and connection. Thank you for joining me on this journey and letting Renewed Roots be your companion toward a healthier, happier you.