Cultivating Hope in the Holiday Season

December 2024

The holiday season, often associated with joy and togetherness, also offers a meaningful opportunity for cancer advocacy and fostering hope, while acknowledging the unique challenges this time of year can bring to individuals and families affected by cancer.

For people with cancer and their loved ones, the holidays can be emotionally complex. While togetherness may help alleviate feelings of isolation and offer comfort in familiar rituals, it can also be a stark reminder of the “new normal” that follows a cancer diagnosis. Adjusting to these changes, facing losses, and managing fears can bring added emotional strain to what is already a busy season. It is important for us all to remember there is no “right” or “wrong” way to feel or to celebrate this time of year. 

What is important is to help people feel included, engaged, and supported, no matter where they are in their journey.  It is natural to want things to feel the same as it was before a cancer diagnosis, but the reality is, it will never be the same. That doesn’t mean it will never feel special or celebrated, it just means things have changed and it is ok to take a breath to acknowledge that.

Adapting holiday traditions can serve as a source of comfort and hope for families affected by cancer. This may be a time to consider reframing expectations and creating new rituals that better suit the current circumstances. This might involve simplifying celebrations or focusing on meaningful, low-stress activities that foster joy and connection. Embracing the “reason for the season” by seeking meaning, connection and hope can be incredibly powerful for those coping with a cancer diagnosis.

Help cultivate hope each day, remembering that hope evolves over time and looks different for everyone. The holidays present a chance to support loved ones facing cancer. Small acts of kindness, practical assistance, emotional support, or simply sharing a holiday treat can show you care. You don’t need to “fix” anything or find the perfect words—just being present and listening can be the most comforting gift. 

To those touched by cancer, whether directly or as a caregiver, we wish you peace, hope, and comfort this holiday season and in the new year. You are not alone, and you matter to us.

Let’s Talk About It is our monthly blog series designed to talk frankly about some of the real-life challenges and the resiliency of living with a diagnosis of cancer, as well as to provide resources and empower others. If you have topics you’d like Lisa or guest contributors to explore, please email us patientadvocacy@beigene.com with your ideas.  

We believe in you and the power of your story. We thank you for sharing your journey with us and others.

Lisa Marquette Porat, MSW, LCSW, FAOSW is an oncology social worker and the U.S. Lead, Patient Advocacy for BeiGene