Our metabolic chef, Derek, shares his personal PKU journey alongside his godson, Ty, offering an honest and heartfelt insight into life with phenylketonuria (PKU).

Derek has been part of Ty’s life from day one, supporting Ty and his mum as they learned to navigate the low protein diet together. From early childhood to the teenage years, food has always been at the heart of their relationship — cooking together, experimenting with recipes, and finding joy and confidence through mealtimes. Ty has also been a key inspiration behind Derek’s thoughtful and creative approach to developing recipes and resources for the low protein community.

Now a teenager, Ty tells his story in his own words — from his very first word, “protein”, to what it’s really like growing up with PKU. He reflects on the impact Derek’s cooking, guidance and ongoing support have had on his confidence, independence and everyday life with PKU.

This is a real‑life story of support, food, and living well with PKU.