MyWorldMyLife

This dish always reminds me of family gatherings, with Gramma's Mahashi stealing the spotlight every time. There’s something so special about these stuffed courgettes and aubergines; they look impressive, but they’re actually not as tricky to make as they seem! Traditionally, they’re filled with rice and meat, but I like to use plant-based mince instead, which keeps all the flavour while making it a little lighter. In the Middle East, Mahashi is a staple for big family meals and special occasions, the kind of dish that brings everyone together around the table. Every family has their own version, so it’s always fun to try a friend’s recipe and see the little twists they add. I hope one day, when you make it, it reminds you of our family meals, the love that goes into cooking, and of me sharing it with you. Ingredients: For the veggies: 10 small courgettes (zucchini) 10 small aubergines (eggplants) For the stuffing: 1¼ cups long-grain rice 1 cup plant-based mince (or mince beef) ...

When I was diagnosed with breast cancer, I knew life was about to change. Surgery, chemo, radiation... it all sounded terrifying and exhausting. But through all of it, one thing kept me feeling like me: moving. Before cancer, I was always busy; work, gardening, the gym, weekend runs. I didn’t sit still much. So even when treatment wiped me out, I still felt this itch to get up and move, even if it was just to the end of the street. On my hardest days, resting felt worse than being tired. Just getting up and moving, even a bit, brought back a glimpse of the old me. In September 2023, halfway through my chemotherapy treatment, I signed up for Cancer Research UK’s Shine Walk and walked a half marathon — 21.1 km — with my husband. It was hard, but also kind of amazing. It wasn’t about speed or performance; it was about proving to myself that I was still strong, still capable. And in the hope that someday cancer treatments will be kinder, more effective, and a whole lot less brutal. Eating ...