Comforting cancer patients with good food, Hiller’s Health Tour leads the way

October 5, 2010 – Good food is vital for good health, and never more so than for people who are going through cancer treatment. Now, during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Hiller’s extends a helping hand to customers coping with the effects of therapy as well as to those that have recovered and want the best possible nourishment to stay well.

On Tuesday, October 26, Hiller’s Health Tour will focus on dietary advice for cancer patients, both during and after treatment. Dr. Adil Akhtar, an oncologist at Beaumont Hospital in Troy, and Deb Martz, a Beaumont Hospital oncology dietician, will be answering questions at the tour, which will be held at Hiller’s Commerce Township location (39950 West 14 Mile Road).

Jim Hiller, CEO of Hiller’s Markets, said: "Far too many of my family and friends have been ravaged by cancer. Just a few months ago a dear friend of 45 years died after a short battle with the disease. Hiller's is committed to do everything possible to support the battle to find cures and treatments as well as educating people about the role of healthy food in cancer prevention and during treatment.”

Dr. Akhtar explained that nutrition was one of the pillars of cancer treatment. “I spend a long time with my patients, talking about diagnosis, treatment and side-effects of treatment, and I especially emphasize the importance of nutrition,” he said. “I think Hiller’s nutritional tour will be a big contribution for patients.”

Patients at the tour will learn how to cope with symptoms like loss of appetite and nausea, and also how to choose the most nutrient-rich and energizing foods. This tour is the fourth in a series that Hiller’s has started as a free service to members of the community; previously, Hiller’s featured a nut-free tour, a baby-food tour and a high-blood pressure tour.

Also this month, Hiller’s Good Deeds dish, nutritious and delicious Italian Bean Salad ($3.98 a pound), available at the deli-counter, is being sold with all profits benefitting cancer-support charity Gilda’s Club Metro Detroit. In addition, Hiller’s Markets is collaborating with the American Cancer Society to raise awareness and funds for the fight against breast cancer. Paper cancer ribbon cards will be sold at all registers for the ACS’s Wall of Hope. The paper ribbons will be sold in increments of $1, $3 and $5. Donations can be made in honor or in memory of someone and the cards will be displayed in Hiller’s stores.

All are welcome to attend the cancer-focused Hiller’s Health Tour on October 26 at 7 p.m. To reserve a spot contact Lynn Lederman, Hiller’s Director of Community Services, at 248-798-5442 or lynn.lederman@hillers.com.