Mike Snead, Nutrition Services Director at Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital of Fredericksburg, is a Certified Executive Chef, and he’s made it his mission to provide a more joyful food experience to stroke patients who have trouble swallowing. Mike has dedicated the past three years to research and implementation of a therapeutic food program at the hospital to create more appealing and appetizing meals. First each food item is pureed separately, and then he uses food molds to recreate the appearance of the natural look of each food. The hospital has received incredible feedback from patients and families who say the meals are tasty, but also allowed their loves ones to feel a sense of normalcy as they recover from a stroke.

In an interview withThe Free Lance-Star, Mike shared: “Most chefs have a passion for food; I have a passion for feeding people. My goal is not only to make sure the food is good, but when they look at the plate, they know exactly what they’re eating.” Learn more about how this food program is benefiting patients by reading this article inThe Free Lance-Star and watching the video.

Source: The Free Lance-Star