Baking as therapy

Eric on the left, Aaron on the right

[It's been a while since I posted -- my apologies to all my loyal readers! Yes, all 3 of you. I've been caught up studying for my nursing boards. How did I do, you ask? I'll let you know in 2 business days.]

I have always found being in the kitchen therapeutic on many levels. Cooking and baking involve all 5 senses. The satisfaction of enjoying a meal created by my own hands is unmatched by any other activity. This is the same for a young boy in the Washington, DC area (my hometown!) who sadly lost his twin brother to brain cancer at the age of 8.

When Eric died, Aaron was left feeling like he lost a part of himself. To grieve, he turned to the kitchen. He discovered his love for baking, and began to pour his grief and mourning into cookies. He started his own "business" with the help of his pediatrician and family, and sells the cookies for 75 cents apiece. The money he raises goes to organizations that helped the family during Eric's illness.

The story is touching, and is an inspirational tale of finding solace and healing in the kitchen. You can read the story here.