Navigating the holidays after a cancer diagnosis

The holidays are a season of great food, cherished memories and nostalgic joy. They also bring their fair share of stress to the table. Whether your traditions include large meals with extended family or smaller cozy celebrations, things will probably look a little different if you or a loved one is dealing with a cancer diagnosis. But that doesn’t mean the holidays can’t be every bit as special as in years past.

Whether you’re living with cancer or supporting a loved one with cancer, try these four tips from the Cancer Support Community to thrive this holiday season. Carrum Health partners with CSC to give our members access to support groups, counseling and educational resources at no cost to you.

1. Be open to rethinking your holiday traditions.

Let’s say you make the holiday turkey every year. When November rolls around, you’re a master chef in the kitchen. No one can do it like you. But your “secret recipe” is a 12-hour, 27-step process for cooking a 12-pound bird! Depending on your cancer diagnosis and treatment plan, you may not feel up to running a marathon around your kitchen this year — even if the thought of breaking your tradition shakes you to your core.

It may be time to reframe your expectations.

Just because you may not be able to do things solo this year doesn’t mean it’s the end of your traditions. In fact, it could open the door to new ones that you love even more. What if you adapt your famous turkey dinner by asking your siblings, children, or grandkids to join in? Instead of feeling stressed or inadequate as you push your body to do too much, you create a new opportunity to make cherished memories with your loved ones. And your meal will taste even better because everyone put love and care into its preparation.

2. Be aware of your dietary restrictions and needs.

During cancer treatment, you may notice your tastes changing. Some foods may start tasting different, and you may not enjoy some of the foods you used to love. And you may have treatment-related cravings just as often as side effects like nausea. On top of that, some treatments, like chemotherapy and radiation, can also come with dietary restrictions. Your care team may recommend avoiding a few popular holiday foods this year. These may include:

• Raw nuts
• Fresh salsas and dressings
• Spicy or acidic foods
• Alcohol

This is another way the holidays may look a little different this year. You may not be able to have any of your aunt’s famous eggnog. Or you might crave a plain hot dog and bowl of macaroni and cheese instead of the holiday ham you’ve loved since you were a kid. Don’t push yourself to fit into a certain vision of what you think the holidays should look like.

This year, give yourself the freedom to eat the foods you crave — as long as they line up with your dietary needs. You can even share those foods with loved ones so you don’t feel left out by eating something different. Just remember, moderation is key.

3. Pace yourself and delegate.

There’s a lot to do around the holidays. The kids want to play outside, the dishes need to be done and your sibling won’t stop talking about their new start-up idea. Meanwhile, you’re just trying to stay on top of everything, catering to the needs of others before yourself.

Living with cancer and going through treatment can really add to the fatigue we feel during the holidays. This year, give yourself permission to set your own pace. The meaningful moments will still happen, even if not everything on your list gets done. Take time to step back from high-activity areas, rest and do what you need to recharge.

Avoid burning out by asking for help from your loved ones. Many of them have probably already asked what they can do to help. Use the support of those around you to reduce your stress and give yourself time to experience the same joy during the holidays. Asking for help doesn’t have to be about your cancer treatment. Try to include loved ones in every step of holiday planning and celebration. Your relationships will be even stronger for it.

4. Acknowledge your emotions and express them to those you trust.

The holidays may bring us joy, but they can also bring up some complicated feelings — including ones about your cancer journey. Respect those feelings. Let yourself feel them, and don’t be afraid to confide in the people you trust.

You’re not facing this alone. Sharing your feelings can help build a bridge between you and your loved ones. They want to have your back. Let your trusted friends and family be there to support you.

It is okay to accept help even if you didn’t ask for it. Support is a major reason for the season. So, allow your loved ones to assist you and trust in their ability to handle frank and honest conversations about your needs and feelings. Remember that your emotions and mental health are important during the holidays and always.

Even if this holiday season looks a little different, there’s beauty and joy in slowing down and surrounding yourself with the people you love.

A cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, but we’re here to help guide you through it. When you get cancer care through Carrum Health, you’ll have a dedicated care navigator by your side every step of the way. Plus, most, if not all, treatment costs are often covered. You’ll also have access to resources and support from the Cancer Support Community at no cost to you.

Register with Carrum Health to check your coverage and speak with one of our cancer care navigators today.

The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only. No material is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.