October 3, 2024
Members of the Matt Cook Foundation, family and staff visit the new Star Room at the Cross Cancer Institute in Edmonton. Photo supplied.
The Star Room is designed to provide a comfortable and welcoming environment for young patients and their loved ones. Photo supplied.
Inspired by the late Matt Cook’s love for the stars, the room sparkles with a starry ceiling, creating a soothing and calming atmosphere. Photo supplied.
Story by Jennifer Green| Video by Evan Isbister
EDMONTON — In the heart of the Cross Cancer Institute, a celestial-themed inpatient unit now has a room that shines brightly, a testament to the enduring legacy of Matt Cook. The Star Room, a creation of the Matt Cook Foundation, is more than just a physical space — it's a sanctuary and comfort for young adults battling cancer.
"We wanted to create a place where patients could feel a sense of normalcy and connection," says Lynn Anderson Cook, chair of the Matt Cook Foundation and Matt's mother. Inspired by Matt's love for the stars, the room sparkles with a starry ceiling, creating a soothing and calming atmosphere.
"Those stars are Matt's signature on the room," adds Lynn. "He often would say, 'I love you more than all the stars in the sky’. We want patients to feel the same love."
The Matt Cook Foundation was founded to honour Matt Cook, a young man who bravely battled osteosarcoma. His unwavering spirit and dedication to making a difference inspired his family and friends to create a foundation to build upon his legacy of hope and support.
Beyond the aesthetics, the Star Room is designed to provide a comfortable and welcoming environment for young patients and their loved ones.
"It's a place where they can relax, connect with friends and family, and just be themselves," says Brady Cook, Matt's brother. With a big-screen TV, gaming consoles and comfortable seating, the Star Room brings a much-needed respite from a sterile hospital setting.
"The Star Room is more than just a room — it's a symbol of hope and resilience," says David Dyer, executive director of the Cross Cancer Institute. "It's a place where young adults can find strength and inspiration."
The Matt Cook Foundation raised $547,000 to develop the room, sparing no detail. It’s tangible proof of the foundation’s commitment to support young cancer patients with a space they can call their own, find inspiration and, ultimately, feel hope for a brighter future.
The Foundation's flagship initiative — the Matt Cook Cares Package — provides essential items to young cancer patients to keep them connected and comfortable during treatment.
As Lynn Anderson Cook and Brady Cook and all those who loved Matt reflect on his legacy and the impact of the Star Room, it's clear that their dedication and compassion have created a space that will continue to inspire and uplift countless young adults facing cancer.
