Greetings from the heart of Chicago! I'm Billy, a home cook and baker with a story that's as unique as the flavors I whip up in my kitchen. A decade back, my life took an unexpected turn. From playing basketball and working at ESPN radio, I went from an active lifestyle to a challenging 8-year journey—doctor's visits, legs that seemed to be working against me, and finally, a diagnosis of limb girdle muscular dystrophy 2L in March 2021.

As my body underwent changes, I found solace and a newfound passion in the kitchen. I jokingly say I traded my jersey for an apron, re-focusing my energy on becoming a better home cook and baker. Sandwiches and pizza became my canvas, and from that emerged the "Tripping Billy" pizza. Little did I know, this creation would become a catalyst for raising funds and awareness for the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

Teaming up with some of Chicago's best pizzerias and restaurants, I shared my story of reinvention through food. It became a way to show people that even in the face of change, positive things can happen. Over the past few years, I've collaborated with over 50 culinary giants, raising an incredible $56,000 for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. I'm have been the Illinois Ambassador for the MDA since January of 2022. It's been a humbling journey, using my love for food to make a real impact.

Social media has been my platform to share not just my culinary adventures but my life journey. There, I showcase creative recipes inspired by my experiences, the spirit of Chicago sports, my Jordanian cultural heritage, and all my other passions. Dive into my series like "Sunday Sandwiches" and "Chicago Squares" for a taste of the diverse flavors that make up my life.

At home, I'm surrounded by love—my fiancée Rachael, my trusty wiener dog Einstein, and the ever-watchful cat Aoife. They're my support system, grounding me in the midst of life's challenges.

So, come along on this flavorful journey and be part of a community where resilience, creativity, and compassion converge, proving that even in the face of adversity, we can create something beautiful. Because life, much like cooking, is all about finding the right balance of ingredients and savoring every moment.