First Christmas with Cancer

Jingle Bell Rock’ and ‘Little Drummer Boy’ reverberating through shopping centres are a given this time of the year. Joyous Father Christmases with gleeful faces are surrounding us like a halo. If this is your first Christmas with cancer, you might want to run up to them and scream: “Shush!! There are serious things happening in my life!!” But you can’t, and you shouldn’t. Christmas is there for a reason, and will remain as such. There are lots you can do to make this one especially unique.

Remember that you CAN beat cancer. Once you get your trail of thought focused on that fact, your attitude will surely follow. There are many reasons to get out of bed. The nearest-and-dearest people in your life might feel awkward at this time, and are most definitely concerned about your well-being. Start with them. Do something particularly special for their Christmas stockings. Write a poem, make a painting, award someone with a certificate of excellence, knit a scarf, make a family collage, or dedicate a song – anything that is a personal gift from you to them. Some loved-ones that seem to have ‘pulled away’ since your diagnosis can be pulled right back in, with your help. They are just as shocked, worried and bewildered as you with the news of your illness. Not all people know how to deal with these feelings, and are at a loss for words. Show them that you understand, care for them, need them and feel the same. Think of something that will particularly charm each of those people closest to your heart. Become Father Christmas!!

We all have to learn to live life to the fullest. Choose two nice things to do for Christmas. Your energy levels might not be what they were before therapy, so more than two will tire you, and lessen the joy of the occasion. Quality, and not quantity, should be your motto this year. If you have the fortitude to host something, ask for help. It will be great fun having a ‘group preparation’ for a fun celebration. For once, have that storybook Christmas you’ve always dreamed about. Your attitude will make it possible, and your loved-ones will be astounded by your positive spirit.

Another point to consider is the foods associated with Christmas. Fact is, it’s seldom – if ever – the organic, nutritious, vegetable laden tables that will await you. Foods with sinful substances, sub-substances, sugars, fat, creams, wines and all sorts of immune system nightmares are a sure thing. It is only Christmas once. Have a taste, and fear not. Just bear in mind that rich foods might make you nauseous, and your appetite might be in reverse gear. Dish for yourself as for a small child. After Christmas you can always go on a ‘binge corrector’ diet, and stick to raw vegetables and fruit for a day or two.

If you feel like portraying that hidden hippy, gypsy, model, princess or eccentric artist in you – go out and search for the outfit. Get attitude and have fun doing so! Whilst planning or shopping, sing to yourself: “I’m not done yet!” Your ‘boots of stance’ regarding your condition will help you climb the highest Christmas tree.
Adelle Ottavini-Editor of BelleOnline