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Getting Through the Holidays When You Have Cancer

The holiday season can bring joy, tradition, and time with people you care about. But if you’re going through cancer, it may also come with stress, exhaustion, or mixed emotions.1 You may feel pressure to do things the way you always have, even when your body or mind says otherwise. Or you might feel left out if your life feels different from others around you. There’s no right or wrong way to feel. Here are a few tips that may help you get through the holidays in a way that works for you.

1. Do Less. It’s Okay.

You don’t have to do everything. If you’re tired, hurting, or overwhelmed, it’s okay to step back. Say no to things that feel too hard or draining. Give yourself permission to rest. Maybe that means skipping an event, ordering takeout instead of cooking, or watching a holiday movie from bed. Small, quiet moments still count.

2. Make New Traditions

Holidays don’t have to look like they always have. If old traditions feel out of reach, create new ones that fit your current energy or needs. You might swap a big dinner for a cozy breakfast with a few loved ones. If you can’t travel, try a video call. If shopping for gifts feels overwhelming, write cards or share kind words instead. The heart of the holiday is connection, not perfection.

3. Be Honest About How You Feel

It’s normal to have big or mixed emotions during the holidays, especially if cancer has changed your life. You might feel sadness, grief, frustration, or even guilt about not being able to do more. You don’t have to pretend everything is okay. Talk to someone you trust, write in a journal, or just name how you feel to yourself.

4. Have an Exit Plan

If you go to a gathering, it can help to have a plan in case you get tired or need a break. Drive yourself if you can or talk to the host ahead of time and let them know you might leave early. This can take away some of the pressure.

Final Thoughts

This season doesn’t have to be big or bright to be meaningful. You get to decide what traditions you want to keep and what to let go of. Whether you celebrate or keep things quiet, what matters most is honoring where you are right now. Whatever the holidays bring, you are allowed to show up just as you are.

MRC-US-ALI-00105 10/25