Health & Wellness

Supporting a loved one with cancer during this season requires compassion and understanding. At the University of Cincinnati Cancer Center, we believe that cancer care extends far beyond medical treatment. It’s about love, empathy, and practical help during a time that can feel overwhelming for patients and their families.

We turned to the true experts—our patients. Cancer survivors Krista, Maja, and Julie shared their stories and advice. We asked them a simple question: What advice would you give to family members and friends to best support loved ones with cancer during the holidays? Their responses moved and inspired us. 

Here are their top tips:

1.      Write handwritten notes of encouragement.

Small, personal gestures like handwritten notes can lift a person’s spirits. Whether it’s a letter or a simple holiday card, words of encouragement remind them they are loved and not alone in their journey.

2.      Focus on the person—not the cancer.

Don’t let conversations revolve solely around their diagnosis or treatment. Ask them about their hobbies, favorite shows, or memories from past holidays. Focusing on their identity beyond their illness is a powerful way to offer emotional support.

3.      Offer to take on practical tasks.

Help with everyday responsibilities like cooking, shoveling snow, cleaning, or shopping. These small efforts can make a big difference when their energy is low. Even driving them to a medical appointment or picking up prescriptions can ease their burden.

4.      Include them in holiday planning.

 Ask for their input on meals, decorations, or traditions. Feeling included can help them feel valued and empowered.  If they aren’t feeling well enough to participate, gently remind them their opinions still matter.

5.      Encourage simpler, more manageable traditions.

It’s okay to scale back on elaborate celebrations. Embrace restful ways to celebrate. For example, watching a favorite holiday movie together or sharing a quiet meal can be just as meaningful.

6.      Reassure them they don’t need to be a hero.

Let them know it’s okay to prioritize their needs and accept help—they don’t have to do it all. This reminder can relieve the pressure to meet unrealistic expectations during the holidays.

7.      Support their right to say no.

Encourage them to prioritize their health and well-being by declining activities that feel overwhelming or draining. Sometimes, skipping a holiday event is the best way to preserve their energy and peace of mind.

8.      Create space for emotions.

Holidays can bring a mix of feelings. Allow them to express sadness, joy, or anything in between without judgment—it’s part of the healing process. Being present and listening can mean more than offering advice.

9.      Find moments of laughter and joy.

 Laughter is a powerful stress reliever. Help them enjoy the little things and create moments of lightness and happiness.. Playing games, telling jokes, or reminiscing about funny memories can create these moments.

Our Inspirations

Cancer survivors like Krista Powers, Maja Flannery, and Julie Turner continue to inspire us. Their journeys highlight the strength of the human spirit and the importance of a strong support system during treatment and recovery.

• Krista Powers, a recent breast cancer survivor, spent over a year battling the disease with countless treatments and surgeries, including a deep flap breast reconstruction. Now, Krista stands proudly as a cancer survivor and offers insight into how her loved ones supported her through the most challenging times.

• Maja Flannery, a 2021 survivor of both endometrial and bladder cancer, faced multiple rounds of chemotherapy and radiation, all while managing a rare lung disease. With the help of personalized cancer care, Maja has emerged strong and optimistic, now thriving in remission.

• Julie Turner’s journey began in 1975 when, as a teenager, she faced blood cancer. She endured difficult treatments, including intense chemotherapy and radiation, which left lasting side effects. Today, Julie continues to be a proud advocate for the American Cancer Society, inspiring others with her perseverance.

Support Makes the Difference

The holiday season can be  challenging for cancer patients and their families, but they can also be a time of healing and connection. With thoughtful care and compassion, we can make the holidays brighter for those facing a cancer diagnosis. As Krista, Maja, and Julie’s stories show, the love and care of family members, caregivers, and close friends can make all the difference.

If you or a loved one needs additional support, consider reaching out to a cancer support group or speaking with a healthcare professional. Supportive services, including those at the University of Cincinnati Cancer Center, are available to help navigate the physical and emotional aspects of a cancer journey. Call 513-585-UCCC to learn more about the UC Cancer Center’s Supportive Services Program.