New Holiday Traditions to Treasure

What if the holidays could become something entirely new this year? For many people navigating cancer treatment, traditional celebrations might feel out of reach or simply don't fit anymore. But this shift doesn't have to mean loss. It can open the door to creating meaningful new traditions that honor where you are right now while still bringing joy and connection to the season.

The holiday season encompasses many celebrations, from Hanukkah and Christmas to Kwanzaa, winter solstice gatherings, and New Year's Eve. Whatever your cultural or religious background, this time of year often centers on togetherness, reflection, and hope. When cancer enters the picture, you have the opportunity to reimagine what these celebrations can look like. At The Brooklyn Cancer Center, we see patients create beautiful new traditions every year that work with their treatment schedules and energy levels.

Simple Ways to Reimagine Your Celebrations

Start smaller and more intimate than years past. Instead of hosting a large dinner party, invite two or three close friends for a quiet afternoon visit. Rather than decorating an entire house, focus on creating one beautiful corner that brings you peace. 

Some easy ideas to try:

• Light a single strand of lights around a window or create a small menorah display

• Set up a cozy corner with your favorite holiday blanket and decorations

• Play holiday music softly in the background throughout the day

• Watch beloved holiday movies from the comfort of your bed or couch

Adapting Food Traditions

Treatment can change your relationship with eating, and that's okay. Our care team can help you navigate dietary changes during the holidays while still enjoying the season. If cooking feels overwhelming, let a loved one help make your traditional recipes while you supervise and share stories. Togetherness matters more than perfection.

Creating Light for Yourself and Others

You can still spread joy even while focusing on your health. Consider organizing help in ways that work for you. You might start a group text where people share daily gratitudes throughout December. If you're feeling isolated, ask your care team about support groups for people in treatment during the holidays. Connecting with others who understand what you're going through can make this season feel less lonely.

Setting Boundaries and Honoring Your Reality

Give yourself permission to say no. You don't need to attend every gathering or maintain every tradition. Your health comes first, and the people who truly care about you will understand. Be honest about what you need. Skip events that feel too demanding or leave gatherings early if you're tired. The holidays can bring up difficult emotions alongside moments of joy. You might grieve how things used to be or feel anxious about the future. 

Starting New Traditions That Feel Right

New traditions don't need to be permanent. What works this year might not fit next year, and that's perfectly fine. The goal is finding what brings you comfort and moments of light right now. You might start a gratitude ritual each evening, naming one positive thing from your day. You could create a memory box for cards, photos, and mementos from this particular season. 

As you navigate the holidays during treatment, remember that you're not alone. Your version of the holidays doesn't need to look like anyone else's to be meaningful and beautiful. Lean on those you love or reach out to your team at TBCC.