Celebrate Small!

Are you feeling anxious about hosting a big Thanksgiving dinner this year? You're not alone. Many patients undergoing treatment find themselves caught between wanting to maintain family traditions and knowing they need to protect their health. This year, it's okay to do things differently.

If you're in cancer treatment or managing a blood disorder, your immune system needs extra care right now. November brings not only Thanksgiving, but also the onset of cold and flu season. Your body is already working hard to heal, and a house full of people (no matter how much you love them) means exposure to germs you don't need.

Consider how you feel after a large family gathering. Even at your healthiest, these events can be physically and emotionally exhausting. Now add treatment fatigue, nausea, or pain to the mix. A smaller, quieter Thanksgiving might be exactly what your body needs.

You don't have to explain yourself to everyone or feel guilty about changing plans. A simple, honest conversation with your family usually goes better than you'd expect. Your loved ones will want to support you. They just need to know what helps. Let them know you're keeping things small this year for your health. 

Picture a Thanksgiving with just your household or maybe one or two other people. You can wear comfortable clothes all day. You can rest when you need to. You can actually taste and enjoy your food instead of rushing around. There's no pressure to smile through discomfort or stay at the table when you need to lie down.

If you do have a few guests, make it easy on yourself. Order an already-cooked turkey or buy a pie to save yourself the hassle of baking. Use paper plates if washing dishes sounds overwhelming; this way is clean and quick, and painless. Your energy is precious right now. Spend it on what matters, not on impressing guests.

Here's something important to remember: the people who truly care about you want you to feel well more than they want a big party. They'd rather you take care of yourself than push yourself too hard trying to make this one "perfect."

This might actually become your favorite Thanksgiving. Smaller celebrations often feel more meaningful. You'll remember the conversations, the laughter, the actual connection with people, not just the chaos of managing a crowd.

If you're concerned about maintaining your health during the holidays while in treatment, consult with your care team. We understand what you're going through, and we can help you figure out what's safe for you specifically. Contact our team today to discuss your concerns and receive personalized guidance on navigating the holiday season while undergoing treatment.