Cook a Meal

What does a Cook a Meal session look like?

• Please arrive at Milroy Lodge at 3pm.
• Upon arrival, make your way to reception, where a dedicated Cancer Council WA Host will be waiting for you.
• Your host will show you to the Cook a Meal kitchen, where you will sign in and get settled.
• You will then be taken on a tour of Milroy Lodge, shown the facilities and what cancer support services the Lodge provides.
• Once the tour is complete its now time to pop on your apron and start cooking!
• Your Host will take you through housekeeping and a short food handling training session.
• As a group, you will assign a ‘Team Leader’.
• Your Team Leader, along with the CCWA Host, will guide you through the steps to create a delicious meal.
• When the meal preparation is almost complete, it’s time to set the dining room for dinner.
• At 5pm your team will welcome the guests into the dining room and begin food service at 5.30pm.
• You are then invited to join our guests and share a meal together.
• You may wish to host a small bingo game, share some jokes, or even play a round of celebrity heads. Our guests really look forward to winding down.
• Its then time to pack down, clean the dishes and leave the kitchen spick and span
• The evening will conclude with a team debrief and farewell.

Other things to consider

What is Cancer?

• Cancer is a group of diseases characterised by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells in the body.
• These abnormal cells can invade and damage nearby tissues and organs, as well as spread to other parts of the body through the bloodstream or lymphatic system.
• There are many different types of cancer, each with its own unique characteristics and behaviours.
• Common types of cancer include breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, and colorectal cancer.
• Cancer can occur in any part of the body, including the skin, bones, blood, and organs.
• The exact causes of cancer are not fully understood, but it is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.

Talking with someone affected by cancer it’s important to:

• Listen actively
  • Start by actively listening to the person affected by cancer. Let them express themselves and be present in the conversation.
  • Avoid interrupting or trying to provide solutions, especially when the person is sharing their emotions.
  • Show your understanding by nodding, repeating their words or asking questions if you feel comfortable to do so.
• Show empathy
  • Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of another person.
  • Use empathetic language to show that you understand their situation and are there to support them.
  • Phrases such as “I can’t imagine how difficult this must be for you” can go a long way in showing empathy
  • Avoid cliches and platitudes
  • It’s important to avoid using platitudes or cliches, such as “Everything happens for a reason” or “Stay positive.“ These statements can minimise the person’s experience and feelings. Instead, offer specific ways to help or simply acknowledge their feelings.
• Respect boundaries
  • Respect the person’s boundaries when it comes to sharing information about their condition or treatment.
  • Avoid prying for more details than they are willing to share, and don’t offer unsolicited advice.
  • Remember that everyone’s experience with cancer is different, so what works for one person may not work for another.
• Offer practical support
  • Refer the guest to helpful and appropriate services such as the Accommodation Cancer Support Coordinator and 13 11 20 Cancer Information and Support Helpline.
• Confidentiality, Privacy and Why
  • The people who use our service must be able to trust Cancer Council WA staff and volunteers. They must be assured this is a confidential service.
  • All personal information regarding people using our service revealed to staff/volunteers is to be held in strictest confidence.
  • Cancer Council WA staff and volunteers are expected to respect the privacy of others.
• Self Care
  • If you feel emotionally upset during your volunteer experience or following the event, please speak to the onsite Cancer Council WA staff member or your manager.
  • Maintain your own boundaries.
  • Personal strategies such as take a break, go for a walks to help ground yourself, meditation or physical activity.
  • 13 11 20 are here for you too, please do not hesitate to call one of our team if you need to debrief after volunteering with us.