URGENT UPDATE: A shocking Thanksgiving incident in Kalispell, Montana, has sparked a critical health warning as local resident Cheney Cook shares his harrowing experience with undercooked turkey. After consuming improperly prepared poultry last year, Cheney faced a life-threatening battle with Guillain-Barre syndrome, resulting in a staggering 57 days in the intensive care unit.
As families across the nation prepare to feast this Thanksgiving, Cheney’s cautionary tale serves as a powerful reminder of the dangers linked to undercooked turkey. “Make sure the internal temperature of your bird is at least 165 degrees,” he urges, reflecting on the traumatic events of Thanksgiving 2024.
This chilling account begins in a cozy home on the outskirts of Kalispell, where Cheney was hosting a festive dinner for his family. In a rush to satisfy his guests, he served a partially cooked turkey, believing the breast was ready while the rest continued to cook. Shortly after, he accidentally consumed a piece of the undercooked bird.
Days later, what started as a mild headache escalated into a severe health crisis. Cheney recalls, “I woke up at 3 a.m. with numb legs and knew I had to get to an emergency room.” In a desperate attempt to reach help, he crawled to his car, using a hammer to accelerate as his legs failed him. By the end of that day, he was completely paralyzed.
Physicians diagnosed him with Guillain-Barre syndrome, a rare autoimmune disorder that attacks the nervous system, leading to muscle weakness and, in severe cases, full paralysis. “The first three weeks of not being able to communicate were absolutely terrible,” Cheney recalls. His ordeal included multiple bouts of pneumonia and a stay in the hospital that lasted nearly 100 days.
Now, as Thanksgiving 2025 approaches, Cheney is still on the road to recovery. He has regained the ability to walk but continues to face challenges with strength and coordination. “I appreciate waking up every morning — and the people sitting around the table,” he says, reflecting on the support he received from family and friends during his darkest days.
Cheney’s story is not just a personal narrative; it is a critical health advisory. As many prepare to celebrate with turkey dinners, the importance of food safety cannot be overstated. Avoiding undercooked poultry is essential to prevent severe health issues that can arise from foodborne illnesses.
In sharing his experience, Cheney hopes to raise awareness and help others avoid similar pitfalls. “Have someone besides me cook the turkey,” he jokes, emphasizing the serious lesson learned from his ordeal.
As families gather this Thanksgiving, Cheney’s message is clear: ensure food is cooked thoroughly to protect loved ones from potential harm. “The outreach of people was so humbling,” he adds, recognizing the unexpected support from neighbors and friends during his recovery.
With this urgent warning, remember to prioritize safety in your holiday meals. This Thanksgiving, let Cheney’s cautionary tale serve as a reminder of the importance of checking internal cooking temperatures and ensuring food is safe for all to enjoy.
