From Survivor to Chef: A Central Illinois Woman’s Journey to a Healthier Life After Breast Cancer

PEORIA (25News Now) – A breast cancer diagnosis in 2019 completely altered Kelli Ash’s existence.

Five years later, she is among the inaugural cancer survivors to participate in new CEFCU cooking classes at OSF Cancer Institute in Peoria.

In May 2019, Ash visited the doctor for a routine checkup after noticing a lump developing on her body. Following several examinations, Ash received a diagnosis of stage 2 cancer.

“Three days prior to my daughter’s wedding, the radiologist called and regrettably informed me that my tests returned positive for cancer,” Ash stated.

“I prefer to remain active, and I sought something that could help me feel normal again,” Ash continued.

Ash enrolled in the OSF Cancer Institute’s nutrition program nearly two years ago to facilitate that lifestyle adjustment. Now, she is one of the early cancer survivors to partake in CEFCU’s cooking classes at OSF.

Each cooking course spans eight weeks, designed to instruct survivors on maintaining a healthy diet post-cancer. Each class accommodates up to 12 participants.

“It’s a ‘whole food’ type of plant-based diet, focusing on consuming plant-derived foods. There’s fiber, vitamins, minerals, and we include additional nutrients known as phytochemicals,” explained Katrina Sommer, OSF Registered Dietitian and Teaching Kitchen Coordinator.

“I feel that when I wake up each day, it’s no longer a struggle with food,” Ash remarked.

The classes commence in late January. For additional information, click here.

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