Traditionally holidays are recognized as a time to celebrate with family and friends. However, for families who are battling pediatric cancer, the holiday season can often present challenges and add extra stress to an already stressful situation. Consider making this holiday season a little brighter for a family dealing with a cancer diagnosis by lending your support and showing you care.
Here are four ways to help families dealing with a cancer diagnosis during the holiday season:
1. Be present and available
Reach out to a family member or friend of the patient and find out what is most needed. It might be that the family is in need of a meal, gift cards, someone to run their errands, some company, or simply a text message showing your love and letting the family know you are thinking about them. In times of need, showing that you are there for support is key.
2. Help with decorating
Dealing with a cancer diagnosis is a lot to have on one’s plate. Holiday decorations are oftentimes the last thing on the mind and can seem like a very daunting task. Consider offering to help decorate the family’s home for the holidays. We can guarantee that it will bring joy to both you and the family you are helping! What a wonderful way to help spread some holiday cheer!
3. Give the gift of holiday food and treats
Everyone loves a warm home-cooked meal or a delicious holiday treat. However, many times treatment schedules allow no time for meal prep let alone baking. Consider helping by making sure that the family is fed and that they have plenty of food stocked in the refrigerator and pantry. This is a wonderful way to show that you are thinking about them.
4. Donate to cancer research in their honor
A meaningful way to help out a family dealing with a diagnosis during the holiday season is to make a donation to a cancer foundation in their honor. Do some research and choose an organization that you feel compelled to give to. Every dollar counts and we can guarantee this will mean the world to the family you are donating in honor of!
We challenge you during this upcoming season of giving to take the time to show up for families in need! These acts of kindness are sure to help spread some joy and bring some cheer during a difficult season of life. No matter how you choose to help we are certain that it will be very much appreciated!