At Astera Health, we believe recovery is about more than just treatment. It’s about caring for the whole person. That’s why we created the Gemini Pantry, a new Food as Medicine program that provides nourishing, ready-to-enjoy meals for cancer recovery to patients and their caregivers.
Why Nutrition Matters During Cancer Treatment
Cancer treatments like chemotherapy can take a big toll on the body. Food often doesn’t taste right, appetite fades, and extreme fatigue makes cooking feel impossible. For many families, this means quick snacks, missed meals, or nothing at all. And for patients already fighting hard, poor nutrition can slow healing and increase side effects.
Some families in our community also face food insecurity or simply don’t have the support they need to make nutritious meals during treatment. That’s where the Gemini Pantry comes in.
“Some days I just couldn’t even stand long enough to cook. My husband didn’t know what to make for me. We both ended up eating cereal for dinner.” -Patient
What Is the Gemini Pantry?
The Gemini Pantry offers cancer recovery meals designed for sensitive appetites and nutritional needs. Patients and their caregivers can receive pre-prepared, balanced meals that are:
- Gentle on taste buds affected by treatment
- Packed with nutrients to support healing
- Easy to warm up and enjoy at home
- Delivered or picked up privately, with dignity
Meals are tailored by our nutritionist to fit each patient’s care plan. Caregivers also receive meals, as we recognize they need support too.
Why Cancer Recovery Meals Work
Across the country, similar programs have shown amazing results:
- Patients are more likely to stick to their treatment plans
- Hospital stays are reduced
- Quality of life improves
When patients are well-nourished with cancer recovery meals, they feel stronger, both physically and emotionally. They heal better and faster.
“I knew I needed to eat, but nothing tasted right. It was exhausting even to think about food.” -Patient
Our Vision
This is just the beginning. In the first year, we aim to:
- Provide 700 meals
- Support 50 families
- Raise awareness about how food impacts cancer recovery
We’re starting small but growing with community support.
How You Can Help
You can make a difference today. With a $100 donation, you’ll join our Gemini Circle, a group of donors committed to providing cancer recovery meals when families need them most. Donations can be made as a one-time gift or in a payment plan that fits your budget.
Donate now
Prefer to mail a check?
Astera Health Foundation
415 Jefferson Street N
Wadena, MN 56482
Healing isn’t just about medicine. It’s about strength, support, and the simple act of being there for each other. The Gemini Pantry brings that care home, one meal, one patient, one family at a time.