Posted by Mike on February 15, 1998 at 22:54:58:
In Reply to: cooks with disabilities posted by cindy on July 27, 1997 at 08:22:45:
: Does anyone know whether people who have physical limitations--like not being able to lift more than 25 pounds, or needing to put limits on fine motor activities like chopping, repetitive work like snapping bean ends and other typical prep work--could still make a living in cooking? before I had this problem I was a waitress and dishwasher in my husband's collectively-owned restaraunt and learned some of what's physically required of a line cook and a baker. Is there a way to utilize my cooking and presentation talents with this limitation? Would a particular aspect of food service be best? I have been thinking about catering out of my home.
: Would appreciate any thoughts--thanks!
: Sincerely,
: Cindy
Dear Cindy:
I am a chef/general manager of a seasonal seafood restaurant. I was in an accident which left me with a prosthetic leg on my left side and serious muscle and done damage on the right side. There are physical limitations to what can be done, I have found that a stool that raises up and down and on wheels allows me the most freedom with my leg injuries. There are a lot of limitations and I agree with Gerard about self employement to obtain the most freedom or leverage with the dissabilities. It is a very difficult business to be in, when physically normal, even tougher with physical limitations, but don't give up there is still joy and fun in the business. Best advice: have a strong partner or spouse to lean on when you need to.