Managing Milestone Moments During Cancer Treatment

Plan ahead with your care team

Talk with your doctor, nurse, or care team early about big events. They can tell you how treatment timing, side effects, and infection risk might affect your plans.¹

Pace yourself and set realistic goals

Treatment can cause tiredness, pain, or nausea. Choose the parts of an event that matter most. Rest before and after, and, if necessary, find a different way to participate if showing up in person is too much. Little actions, like sending a video message, can still make you part of the moment.

Make backup plans

When possible, choose events with easy exits and quiet spots should you begin to feel unwell once you arrive. Bring a comfort kit (water, snacks, meds, phone charger, blanket). If you can, go with someone else who can drive and provide other support.

Manage energy and symptoms

Short, gentle walks and light activity may help to improve your energy. Talk with your care team about medicines or therapies that can help with problems such as pain, nausea, or sleep.²

Consider additional precautions

Some health conditions lower the immune system.³ Follow your team’s guidance about masks, sunscreen, and hand hygiene.³ If you’re traveling while using prescription medication, be sure to take enough with you, keep it in the original container with the label, and bring copies of prescriptions with you.⁴ It’s also recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to pack medication in your carry-on in case checked luggage is delayed or lost.⁴

Ask for and accept help

People want to help. It makes it easier for them if you suggest specific tasks such as driving you, carrying bags, taking photos, or giving updates during an event if you can’t go.

Honor how it looks now

Moments might look different and that is okay. Smaller roles or honest conversations with loved ones can make events meaningful.

Take care of your feelings. Big events can bring joy but also worry or sadness. Talking with a counselor, social worker, or support group can help.²

Quick checklist before a milestone event

• Let your care team know in advance of your plans
• Pick the most important parts to attend
• Pack a comfort and medical kit
• Arrange a backup helper and an exit plan
• Schedule rest before and after
• Ask for emotional support if needed
• Confirm travel insurance details and medical record access

Specific event tips

Here are some specific tips you may find helpful for different types of milestone moments:

Wedding

• Let the couple know what you can or can’t do (attend ceremony only, arrive late, or send a video)
• Sit near exits and rest areas. Bring sunscreen, water, and meds
• If travel is needed, plan shorter trips and extra rest days

Graduation

• If outdoors, choose a shaded or quiet spot and bring a folding chair
• Bring a chair cushion
• Ask for reserved seating if crowds are hard to manage

Children’s sporting events

• Go for short visits rather than whole games
• Bring layers, snacks, and a chair
• Pick a parking spot close to the entrance
• If you can’t attend, ask a friend to take photos or send a good-luck video

Final Thoughts

Even during cancer treatment, including participating in a clinical trial, you may still be able to show up for the moments that matter to you. With support, planning, and some flexible thinking, you can continue to create memorable moments while also taking care of your health.

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