5 Ways to Help a Loved One with Cancer During the Holidays

5 Ways to Help a Loved One with Cancer During the Holidays

• The holidays can be hard for people with cancer. That's where you come in. Support from friends and family members can make a big difference. By honoring your loved one's needs, you'll lighten their load - and make a tough time of year a little more joyful. Here are a few meaningful ways to do just that.

  1. Lend them your ears

  Your loved one may be struggling with a swirl of emotions right now. The most helpful thing you can do is ask about how they're doing - and listen without judgment.

  Don't worry about trying to say the "right" thing back. Just respond from your heart. Ask if there's anything you can do to help, or simply say, "I'm sorry to hear that you are going through this."

  If they're not up for talking, that's OK too. Let them know that you'll be there if they change their mind.

  2. Be flexible with traditions

  Your loved one may not feel up for the usual holiday events this year, especially if they're coping with side effects from treatment. So be open to making some adjustments.

  If your loved one normally hosts, it might be time for someone else to take over those duties. They may also want to scale back on the festivities or guest list, or they could shift the date or time of a celebration to when they think they'll have more energy (even if it's not on the actual holiday).

  These changes can make the holidays feel a little different. But going with the flow and finding ways to make the season more manageable for your loved one is an important way to show support. Plus, it's an opportunity to make new memories that you'll both cherish.

  3. Extend a helping hand

  Offer to check a task or two off of your loved one's holiday to-do list. You could:

  • Shop for gifts or wrap them
  • Put up decorations around their home
  • Buy groceries
  • Bring over a meal
  • Clean or do laundry
  • Help with childcare

  4. Be open to menu changes

  Holiday foods are often steeped in tradition, but this year may call for some shifts. Cancer (and cancer treatment) can affect a person's appetite. Some people with cancer may need to limit certain foods, such as sugar and alcohol.

  If you host or cook, ask how you can adjust holiday spreads to make them more appealing for your loved one.

  If your loved one is typically the chef, it may help to cut down on the number of dishes served, have someone else handle cooking, or turn your event into a potluck.

  5. Give thoughtfully

  Stick with things your loved one can use now. Small, practical items that they may need (or just get a kick out of) are usually good bets. You could try:

  • Soft socks
  • A cozy hat or scarf
  • A fluffy new blanket or towel set
  • Soft, silky pillowcases
  • Fresh pajamas or a new robe
  • Luxurious toiletries
  • Favorite foods or snacks
  • A photo album with pictures of their favorite people
  • A journal or notebook with a nice pen
  • A subscription to a movie streaming service or audiobook service

  Reach out

  If you're looking for more ways to support your loved one or could use some support yourself, you aren't alone. At Fox Chase Cancer Center, we offer specialized support to people with cancer and their loved ones, during the holidays and year-round. Call 1-888-369-2427 to learn more or connect to our comprehensive care.