With one third of cancers able to be prevented by leading a healthy lifestyle, Cancer Council ACT Healthy Lifestyle series will support Canberrans to reduce their risk this summer.

For most of us, the holiday season brings out a sense of joy, with memories of exploring Christmas lights, sharing meals with friends and family, and usually taking a short trip to the coast for some summer fun.

But for some, the holidays aren’t filled with such joy.

With cancer affecting more than half the population by the age of 85, we will all be impacted by cancer at some stage in our lives.

This was the case for the Fintan family three years ago when beloved husband and father David was diagnosed with acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia, with a rare and deadly subtype called MLL.

In 2018, this local Canberra family faced the heartbreaking and very real possibility that David wouldn’t make it to Christmas.

The Fintans count themselves very lucky, as thanks to life-saving medical treatments, David was able to make it home for Christmas and will this year be celebrating his fourth Christmas with the family since his diagnosis.

“I’ve been lucky to have three more Christmases with my family. Far too many people still aren’t this fortunate,” says David. “But research into safer and more effective cancer treatments can change that.”

Tips for wellbeing at Christmas

Christmas can be especially hard for those living with cancer, caring for a loved one, or managing a loss, who can struggle with their emotions, fears and challenges in this holiday season.

And with the uncertainties we have all faced over the past few years, there is a very real need for us all to make our wellbeing a priority during the holidays.

1. Set realistic expectations

When it comes to gifts and celebrations, look for ways to reduce the pressures.

Online shopping, vouchers and local gifts are a way to save time and money.

It’s okay not to be the host, and keep celebrations low key by having a picnic, sharing the food preparation or even booking a restaurant so you can all relax!

Keep it simple and allow for rest when you need it. We all need down time, and illness and treatments can increase fatigue, so plan for less.

2. Express your needs

It’s okay to say ‘no’, and let others know if you are having trouble coping. You don’t have to do anything you don’t want to do and remember to communicate these needs clearly and kindly.

Be explicit about what you need help with, or what involvement you feel you are able to have in celebrations across the holidays.

3. Be kind to yourself

Acknowledge and accept your limitations; we all have them.

Celebrations do not need to be perfect, and we all need to get through the holiday the best way we can.

Allow yourself time to feel how you feel. Grieve and reflect on any feelings of loss. Continue to communicate this as best you can, to those you trust.

4. Seek support

Talking to someone about how you feel can help reduce feelings of uncertainty, distress, and isolation. Find someone you can trust whether a friend or family member, or a trusted professional.

For cancer support and information, you can speak to Cancer Council’s friendly and experienced cancer health professionals on 13 11 20 from Monday to Friday, 9am – 5pm.

For emotional support you can call Beyond Blue 24/7 on 1300 22 4636.

For crisis support throughout the holiday season you can call Lifeline 24/7 on 13 11 14.

Further resources for Cancer information and support can be found at: https://actcancer.org/information-and-support/publications/cancer-information/

Cancer research and support

Lifesaving cancer research, and accessible support services for families suffering through a cancer diagnosis, are only possible through the financial support of our community of donors and supporters. It is only because of the advances made through cancer research, and the support services available to him, that David is still here celebrating and making precious memories with his family today. 

You can make a gift this Christmas to help Cancer Council ACT work towards the vision of a cancer free future, and continue to support those affected by cancer here in the ACT by donating to the Christmas appeal: actcancer.org/support-us/christmas-appeal-2020/

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