Coping with Cancer over Christmas

Coping with Cancer over Christmas

Lisa Kidd knows there is never a good time to receive a cancer diagnosis. But the 34 year-old breast cancer survivor, says coping with a diagnosis can be particularly difficult over the Christmas period. On Christmas Eve 2007, Lisa discovered a lump in her breast. A few days later, with her nine-month old son in tow, she was told; 'you have cancer."

'It was like I'd just had the wind knocked out of me- how could this happen?! My mind was racing and my body was shaking," recalls Lisa.

To help manage these feelings, Lisa contacted the Cancer Council Helpline, a confidential service staffed by experienced cancer nurses who offer advice, information and support.

'I was a wailing mess. I was just letting it all out and asking what I should do. The nurse reassured me that everything I was feeling was totally understandable."

Surgeons cut out 5.7cm of tissue before Lisa underwent months of chemotherapy and radiotherapy and had both breasts removed. In an unexpected but joyful turn of events, Lisa is now 21 weeks pregnant with her -miracle baby' looking forward to celebrating Christmas with her family.

Todd Harper, Chief Executive Officer of Cancer Council Victoria, says the Cancer Council Helpline receives hundreds of calls from people affected by cancer looking for information, support, coping strategies and advice during the holiday season.

'We speak to patients who have a range of different emotions. Some are worried their feelings and emotions may ruin the celebrations for others, while others are dealing with frustration at delays in appointments, treatments and results over this period," Mr Harper said.

Mr Harper encouraged anyone finding it difficult to cope with cancer, including family or friends, or those who have lost a loved one, to call the Cancer Council Helpline and access confidential support during the Christmas period.

'Our experienced cancer nurses are here to listen and share emotional and practical support to help make things a little easier," Mr Harper said.

Cancer Council Victoria has also produced a fact sheet, which shares tips and strategies for coping with cancer over the holiday period. These include considering online shopping or gift vouchers for Christmas presents (saving both time and energy), booking Christmas lunch at a restaurant, or simply asking people to bring a contribution to the Christmas meal, which can all help reduce stress.

The fact sheet is available on the Cancer Council Victoria website (www.cancervic.org.au) or by calling the Cancer Council Helpline on 13 11 20.

The Helpline will be available over the Christmas and New Year break (with the exception of three public holidays.)
Online support is available 24 hours a day via the cancer support website, www.cancerconnections.com.au