Dealing With Cancer During the Holidays

The holiday season can seem stressful, but Saint Francis Medical Center counselors say it can place an even heavier burden on people going through cancer treatments.

Claudia Krueger's battle with breast cancer began in August of 2011.

"I've been through mastectomy, with stage one reconstruction," Krueger says. "Now I'm starting on my chemo."

She says those treatments, which she receives every other week, have strong and lasting effects.

"The third day after chemo is usually your rough day," Krueger says. "These drugs can cause a lot of muscle ache and pain. You just feel very, very achey and tired."

Saint Francis Cancer Center Family and Patient Counselor Mary Ann Kalinay says can make the already hectic Christmas season even more stressful.

"People, when they're going through treatments, fatigue is the most common side effect," Kalinay says.

She says that often makes it hard for cancer patients and their families to maintain their Christmas traditions.

Krueger says she's cut back on her Christmas decorations for this year.

"It's really important to have a plan and visit with your family about what we might do different this year," Kalinay says.

She says it's also important to leave room for adjustments in the holiday schedule.

"People who are going through treatments, most of the time they don't know on a day to day basis how they're going to feel," Kalinay says.

Through that unpredictability, she says the most important thing to focus on is the love and support of family and friends. And Krueger says that's just what she's experienced.

"Everyone is more than happy to help you when you need it," Krueger says.

She says that support has meant more to her than any amount of Christmas decorations or gifts.

Source: http://www.1011now.com/home/headlines/Dealing_With_Cancer_During_the_Holidays_136037408.html

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