In the heart of Richmond Hill, Ontario, Liz Phung has beautifully transformed her grief into a mission of love and community through her micro-bakery, Dough Lizious. After the tragic loss of her dear friend Jonathan Kwon, Liz found solace in baking, initially as a personal healing journey that soon blossomed into a thriving business aimed at making a difference. Her story is not just about the art of baking but also about honoring a cherished friendship, raising awareness for Sudden Arrhythmic Death (SAD) syndrome, and giving back through charity. With 20% of her proceeds supporting the Jonathan Kwon Foundation (TJKF), she is proving that from the depths of sorrow can arise something profoundly beautiful and impactful.
Key Takeaways
- Liz Phung transformed her grief into a passion for baking, creating Dough Lizious as a tribute to her late friend, Jonathan Kwon.
- 20% of Dough Lizious’s proceeds go to the Jonathan Kwon Foundation to raise awareness for Sudden Arrhythmic Death syndrome.
- The bakery not only offers delightful treats but also carries personal significance and community support through its charitable mission.
Baking as a Healing Journey
Baking as a Healing Journey is more than just a heartfelt narrative; it represents the transformative power of culinary arts in coping with loss and fostering community connections. Liz Phung, an inspiring baker from Richmond Hill, Ontario, turned her grief into a passion that flourishes through her micro-bakery, Dough Lizious. After the unexpected loss of her close friend Jonathan Kwon to cardiac arrest, Liz found solace and therapeutic release in baking. It all began with her experimentation with focaccia, which soon blossomed into a variety of artisanal breads, including bagels and sourdough. The creation of Dough Lizious came about when a charity golf tournament was established by the Jonathan Kwon Foundation (TJKF), dedicated to raising awareness and funding research for Sudden Arrhythmic Death (SAD) syndrome. Liz’s participation by donating proceeds from her baked goods to sponsor a tournament hole solidified her bakery’s mission—20% of all profits go directly to TJKF, marking a beautiful fusion of remembrance and contribution. Each delicious offering, like her blueberry lemon zest sourdough named after Jonathan’s mother, Anna, carries with it a personal story, making every bite meaningful. Liz’s journey, fueled by the resilience of Jonathan’s family and unwavering community support from Toronto, has transitioned Dough Lizious into a beacon of hope and love. As she continues to grow her business, Liz remains dedicated to celebrating Jonathan’s legacy while nurturing connections through the joy of baking.
Dough Lizious: A Mission of Love and Charity
In addition to her commitment to honoring Jonathan Kwon’s legacy, Liz Phung has forged a strong community connection through her micro-bakery, Dough Lizious. Each product not only satisfies the palate but also serves as a conversation starter about a crucial health issue: Sudden Arrhythmic Death syndrome. Liz hosts community events, baking classes, and tasting sessions to spread awareness and encourage discussions around heart health and emotional well-being. Her mission resonates with more than just her customers; it appeals to those who understand the importance of support and compassion during difficult times. The bakery has rapidly gained popularity in Richmond Hill and beyond, with regular patrons returning not only for the bread but also to support the cause. With each loaf of bread, Liz is not only delivering sustenance but also cultivating a movement of love, resilience, and community spirit around her mission.