Support Chef Zack for a long recovery (Amputation)

My Journey: From Chef to Fighter 

My name is Zack Wannawong. At 37 years old, my life has been a journey of hard work, passion, and resilience. Born in Thailand, I moved to the U.S. at 16 years old and began my culinary career as a dishwasher at my aunt’s Thai and Chinese buffet restaurant in Pensacola, FL. That kitchen became my training ground, where I worked tirelessly to master my craft and rise to the role of line cook. 

 Hungry for more, I moved to Washington, DC, determined to pursue my dream of becoming a professional chef. I learned everything I could in the fast-paced kitchens of DC, preparing dishes for high volumes of guests. At just 19, I became a sous chef at an Asian restaurant, a role that opened my eyes to the intricacies of running a kitchen from perfecting sauces to managing a team. 

Yet I wasn’t satisfied. I craved new challenges and began to expand my skills. I took a position in a sushi restaurant, where I honed my technique, mastering the art of sushi rice and fish preparation. I thrived in the demanding environment, inspired by the precision and artistry it required. Eventually, I transitioned to a French fine-dining restaurant, where I learned the delicate balance of running a chef’s table and being a strong leader for my team. 

Through sheer grit and determination, I rose to become the head chef at several restaurants, overseeing teams of 30 or more and opening new locations in both the DC and Philadelphia areas. I loved the creative process of crafting menus, sourcing the finest ingredients, and bringing people joy through food. My passion was my life, and I was proud of everything I’d accomplished.  

Then, everything changed. 

At 37, I was at the peak of my life and career—a man with dreams of owning my own restaurants and traveling the world. But everything changed in an instant. A life-altering event brought me to the edge of death, forcing me to confront a reality I never imagined.

A Fight for My Life 

On April 8, 2024, I was admitted to the hospital for excruciating pain in my right foot. After a series of tests and an MRI, doctors discovered what appeared to be a blood clot. What followed was beyond my worst nightmares. 

When they opened my foot to investigate, they discovered a rare and life 

threatening infection called necrotizing fasciitis. The infection spread so rapidly that I was placed in a coma for nearly 20 days while surgeons worked tirelessly to save my life. 

In those critical weeks, I underwent multiple surgeries, including amputations. I lost my right leg up to my hip, and parts of the muscle in my left leg had to be removed. The infection even spread to my arms, requiring additional surgeries to stop it. 

When I finally woke up, I was faced with the unimaginable reality: my right leg was gone. The pain, both physical and emotional, was overwhelming. I broke down, crying as I tried to comprehend what my life would look like now. 

But I am still here. And for that, I am grateful.  

Rebuilding My Life 

After four weeks in the ICU and five weeks in rehabilitation, I returned home to face the most difficult chapter of my life. I had to learn how to navigate everyday tasks from a wheelchair, manage intense nerve pain, and confront the deep depression that came with my new reality. 

Financially, I was stretched beyond my limits. I’ve used up all my savings, sold my transportation, and have been denied nearly every type of government support I’ve applied for including assistance for my prosthetic leg. 

Despite these challenges, I’m determined to rebuild my life not just for myself, but for my five-year-old son, who is my greatest source of hope and love. He deserves to see his father fight and rise above this adversity. 

A New Vision 

I’ve always believed in the power of hard work, and even though my circumstances have changed, my passion for cooking and inspiring others hasn’t. My dream is to start a YouTube channel to share my love of cooking, explore the rich cultures behind different cuisines, and document my journey as an amputee. 

Through this platform, I want to inspire others with disabilities to find strength and purpose in their own lives. I want to show that life after trauma is possible, even if it’s one small step or one big leap at a time. 

The Limbs for Life Foundation has given me incredible support, providing me with a prosthetic that will allow me to walk again. When they asked me what I would do once I could walk, my answer was simple: I want to go back to work. 

How You Can Help 

Right now, I need your help to get back on my feet literally and figuratively. Your support will help me cover essential expenses, such as:

Day to day living cost… 

Some medical bills 

Transportation to doctor’s appointments and therapy.. 

Some small supports for my son would also be greatly appreciated 

With your generosity, I can focus on healing, supporting my family, and creating a future where I can return to the work I love. Every donation, no matter how small, brings me closer to stability and independence. 

A Message of Hope 

To anyone living with a disability: I see you. I understand the pain, the depression, and the frustration of feeling unseen. But I also believe in the power of hope and perseverance. You are not alone in this fight. 

I want to thank my family, friends, and the incredible people who have supported me so far. Your love and encouragement mean more than words can express. 

To everyone reading this: thank you for taking the time to hear my story. Together, we can create a brighter future not just for me, but for others who face similar challenges.

Thank you for reading my story and for your kindness and generosity. If you’d like to follow my healing journey, check out my IG…@Zackwannawong

https://nbcphiladelphia.app.link/GKippPlFrRb