Coping with cancer and the holidays
The holidays can be a festive and joyful time. But for those going through cancer treatments, it can be stressful and full of anxiety. Treatments, like chemotherapy and radiation, can be time consuming and exhausting. For many patients and their families the thought of preparing for the season may be more than they can handle.
“Don’t be afraid to ask for help,” says Ursula Matulonis, MD, the director of the gynecologic oncology center at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. “For many patients, tasks such as shopping, baking, and decorating may be overwhelming or impossible. It’s important to slow down, take time to rest and not worry about getting everything done.”
Matulonis stresses that communication is key in helping patients and their families to both get through the holidays and enjoy them. She reminds patients not to be afraid to speak up, and in some cases, just say no. Don’t feel the need to make every moment memorable. Realize that this holiday season may need to be spent a little differently.
Cyndi MacKinlay, whose son Andrew is a leukemia survivor, agrees. “A cancer diagnosis hits a family hard and impacts every member. Life comes to a standstill and support is needed like never before.”
When Andrew was five, he was in the hospital during the holidays. MacKinlay says the support of family and friends helped them beyond words. “Our son was so concerned that Santa would not know where to find him.” Late Christmas Eve when Andrew was discharged, family members made sure Santa wouldn’t miss him. Years later, MacKinlay still gets emotional recalling that night. “When we pulled into our driveway my son was so excited to read the sign placed across the front of our home: ‘Hey Santa….Andrew’s home!!!!’. Just as Dr. Seuss’ Grinch could not keep the holidays from the coming, neither could cancer.”
As a founding member of Dana-Farber’s Patient and Family Advisory Counsel, MacKinlay has spent a lot of time helping other families. She and Matulonis offer the following advice for patients, their families and friends for finding hope this holiday.
