(Baton Rouge)— Cancer Services, along with Chef Celeste Gill, hosted a free, patient-friendly cooking demonstration on Thursday, Feb. 9 for those affected by cancer and their families.

The cooking demonstration served 13 guests in person and about 45 virtually. During the event, survivors and their families both learned and tasted recipes prepared by chef, caterer, and television personality, Celeste Gill of Chef Celeste Bistro in Main Street Market. The recipes were crafted by the chef herself to include healthy, cost-effective meals, that could be prepared even by the less experienced chefs of the family.

“Food brings people together,” said Krista Bergeron, LPC, Cancer Services counselor and support group director. “However, cancer patients can often be sidelined due to dietary and cost restrictions. Thanks to Chef Celeste, our clients and their families have more culinary freedom no matter their nutritional or budgetary needs.

During the demonstration, Gill discussed how different seasonings, herbs, and spices can be adjusted for those who experience challenges eating during or after cancer treatment. She also demonstrated the versatility of typical ingredients, transforming lima beans from side dish, to hummus, to even soup. This opens up new eating and meal-planning methods for those with sensitive palettes. Thanks to community generosity, Cancer Services continues providing specialized resources to improve the lives of those impacted by cancer.

Cancer Services’ office hours are from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and new clients are always welcome to visit the center at 550 Lobdell Avenue in Baton Rouge. An appointment can be made by calling (225) 927-2273. Visit cancerservices.org for more information.

Cooking Demo - chef celeste

Photo Caption: Chef Celeste Gill and intern, Rochelle, discuss safe ways to grill chicken.

 About Cancer Services
Since 1959, Cancer Services has been improving life for those living with cancer by providing critical support to help families and individuals of all ages through the difficulties presented by a cancer diagnosis. Our goal is to provide therapeutic, free-of-charge support through counseling, support groups, exercise programs, adult and children’s programming as well as assistance in the form of nutritional supplements, emergency grants, wigs, medical equipment loans and more. In these ways and many more, we strive to serve the emotional, financial and physical needs of individuals and families living with, through and beyond cancer. Learn more at
cancerservices.org.