NYC chef and former 'Top Chef' contestant, Fatima Ali, reflects on the effects of cancer on her two biggest passions, cooking and eating. Following chemo and surgery, the range of motion in her left hand is permanently affected. Ali explains the effect cancer has had on her relationship to food and her continued dreams of opening a restaurant. 

Though Ali wonders if she will be able to cook again, she knows that her love for food and cooking is so strong that cancer will not stand in the way. Ali says, "I dream of being myself again, but I know I'll never quite be the same and that's okay."

For more on Ali's reflections on her cancer experience as she plans her return to the kitchen, click here.