Tis the season to be jolly! Here are some ways to support a loved one with cancer during this festive wintertime.
PUBLISHED DECEMBER 07, 2018
Justin Birckbichler is a fourth grade teacher, testicular cancer survivor and the founder of aBallsySenseofTumor.com. From being diagnosed in November 2016 at the age of 25, to finishing chemo in January 2017, to being cleared in remission in March, he has been passionate about sharing his story to spread awareness and promote open conversation about men's health. Connect with him on Instagram @aballsysenseoftumor, on Twitter @absotTC, on Facebook or via email justin@aballsysenseoftumor.com.
Despite the grueling days of chemo and all its side effects in December 2016, I did my best to maintain my Christmas spirit. As I look back, I realized that there were certain things that helped me a lot during the holidays. The following list details ways loved ones can support a cancer patient during this time of year.
Do things for them.
Cancer treatments take a lot out of you, both physically and mentally. I didn't always have the strength to do things or the mental fortitude to carry out traditional holiday tasks. I needed help, but I didn't necessarily want to admit defeat and ask.
My brother, Kyle, was still at my house after Thanksgiving in 2016, which is the only acceptable time to begin setting up for Christmas. Since I was still recovering from my orchiectomy, I physically couldn't put up our wooden reindeer in my front yard. Kyle noticed this and asked if he could put them up for me. Unfortunately, I didn't have an excuse for making him do it again this year.
What can you do for the cancer patient in your life? Think about what they have done to celebrate on past holidays and ask them if you can help create the same amount of cheer
Do things for them.
Cancer treatments take a lot out of you, both physically and mentally. I didn't always have the strength to do things or the mental fortitude to carry out traditional holiday tasks. I needed help, but I didn't necessarily want to admit defeat and ask.
My brother, Kyle, was still at my house after Thanksgiving in 2016, which is the only acceptable time to begin setting up for Christmas. Since I was still recovering from my orchiectomy, I physically couldn't put up our wooden reindeer in my front yard. Kyle noticed this and asked if he could put them up for me. Unfortunately, I didn't have an excuse for making him do it again this year.
What can you do for the cancer patient in your life? Think about what they have done to celebrate on past holidays and ask them if you can help create the same amount of cheer
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