Spreading the Love at Northwestern Medicine: Local Company Makes

A Carol Stream company is spreading some love to the staff at Northwestern Medicine, literally and figuratively. Grateful community members and business owners Bram Bourgeois and Jennifer Lukas-Bourgeois delivered more than 18,000 jars of Lekkco, a Belgian dark chocolate spread, to 11 Northwestern Medicine hospitals across seven counties.

“The pandemic gave everybody a range of specific challenges. The last 20 months was taxing for anyone in the medical field. During the COVID-19 pandemic, we saw all kinds of acts of heroism and kindness. Everyone in the hospital system, from front-line workers to the team that supports the inner operations of a hospital,” says Lekkco co-founder Bram Bourgeois.

Bram and Jennifer have a personal connection to Northwestern Medicine. Their daughter, Olivia, was born one month prematurely at Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital in Winfield, Ill. and cared for in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

“The compassion and excellent care by the whole team at Central DuPage Hospital was incredible during what was a really difficult time,” said co-founder Jennifer Lukas-Bourgeois. “We’ve all have had our challenges, so we wanted to give back to the community and say thank you to the Northwestern Medicine healthcare system.”

The delicious deliveries brought smiles and elicited some “oohs” and “aahs” from staff eager to try the Belgian spread in two flavors, dark chocolate and caramel and sea salt dark chocolate.

“Chocolate makes people happier,” said Julie Lichtenberg, director of engagement at Northwestern Medicine. “The COVID-19 pandemic has been relentless, and our staff is energized by the ongoing support from the community. This special treat is especially sweet.”

The company name Lekkco combines the Flemish (Dutch) word “lekker,” which means something delicious, and “Co” for chocolate.