Napa Bakery Owner with MS Receives Kitchen Renovation Through Community Generosity

Rory Kandel has dedicated herself to creating delectable pastries in her Napa kitchen since the onset of the pandemic.

Kandel, who founded Rory's Bakehouse, describes her scone creation process. "Layers of butter, aged cheddar, and green onions," she explained to CBS News Bay Area.

According to her, the secret lies in copious amounts of butter and buttermilk paired with impeccable seasoning. "Every Wednesday is about scone production, and we've spent the morning perfecting them," Kandel shared.

Fueled by vision and armed with a rolling pin, she launched her bakery amid the pandemic.

Kandel reflects on her initiation into the baking world, stating, "I am a baker at heart. One day, I decided to bake cookies for people as I had no other plans. The business evolved organically, without any initial strategy."

Hours in the kitchen are standard for most bakers, but for Kandel, it has become increasingly demanding.

Following an extensive series of medical assessments, Kandel was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. "Initially, the diagnosis shocked me, but I managed just fine. Now, despite being on medication, my mobility has decreased significantly," she told the news outlet.

Alongside her baking gadgets, Kandel's cane has become an essential tool. She talks about her limited ability to lift her feet, resulting in a careful shuffle around her kitchen.

Acknowledging future reliance on a wheelchair, Kandel emphasized the necessity of creating a more accessible kitchen. "Adapting this space to be disability-friendly has become crucial," she noted.

In a heartwarming response, the local community contributed over $20,000 to a GoFundMe set up to retrofit her kitchen to accommodate her needs.

Kandel expressed her ongoing struggle navigating her space, saying, "Simply moving around has become a challenge."

Madeline Karam, among Kandel's many supporters, remarked on her determination, saying, "Her condition does not define her. She's investing wholeheartedly in transforming her space so she can continue her passion."

Kandel shared her philosophy with her children, "I want them to realize that anything is achievable. Life throws numerous hurdles, but perseverance and a strong support network can help you overcome them."