We all have favorite Christmas carols and hymns, but even if you love the holidays, we can have fatigue for “BuBuBuBlue Christmas” quickly. I was reminded of my least favorite this morning. I stopped in the dark morning run to admire a full bright starry sky and big dipper. Thank goodness I did. A second later two large dear dashed across the path directly in front startling me, then a possum scurried in the opposite direction. My peace was disrupted but at least my heart rate was up.

Radio stations and malls start at Halloween and people feel pressured to decorate, shop and make travel plans two months ahead. This extended season causes many modifications in healthcare as well. People hold off on elective procedures, and often therapy is interrupted for travel. Patients pull out calendars filled with doctors visits interspersed with activities. Many cancel their plans to travel with a new diagnosis. “Doc, I wish I didn’t have the biopsy last month. I could have enjoyed Christmas more. Now I can’t stand hearing “I’ll be home for Christmas”.

Its a trade off- not just modifying the cancer journey but moving from hearth and home to live a warmer life in Florida. We all miss our relatives this time of year and face- time replaces the hugs. For those who can travel they will brave the cold, ice and snow to be close. What I experience with patients is how emotional the season can be. Many realize that time is marked by these holidays. Mary asks, “Doc, do you think I will be here next Christmas?” You know by now how important hope is. “Mary, I can say with absolute certainty that you will be here next Christmas, even if you are the Christmas angel”. She smiles sweetly.

Of course as always I have a recommendation. Cancer really doesn’t grow overnight. Some forms take years. You can postpone breast and prostate biopsies, scans, Mohs surgery, or starting radiation. Holidays are full enough- why invite more drama? Take control. Enjoy friends and family when you can. Too often I see patients dug into the therapy as if its the only thing important in life- it isn’t. There are empty seats at all of our tables this holiday. We won’t recall our loved one’s therapy. We will joyfully remember a time they celebrated with us. Make some memories for yourself and others. As a cancer physician I am giving you permission to celebrate and forget everything related to any illness. Do not forgo interactions because you don’t feel up to it- others will give you the energy you lack.

If you are already well into treatment and cannot get away, deliberately play the carols on the car radio and sing out loud- you know every word. Let them wash over you and smile at the memories. Indulge in corny holiday movies, make some cookies, brew Christmas coffee or sip some eggnog. You can still participate in the warmth and cheer. I love to do my shopping on line but then head to the mall to see the decorations and watch the anticipation the little ones have as they wait their turn for Santa.

Just remember when you hear the holiday music to smile and enjoy, unless of course it’s “Grandma got run over by a reindeer“. It was a close call!