PSA CPSU NSW members have access to cancer support services via their union’s relationship with Osara Health. Help is available to those directly impacted by cancer and those caring for someone with the disease.

Information is available at www.osarahealth.com/en-au/psacpsunsw

In addition, Osara has supplied tips for cancer patients and their families to help cope with the ups and downs of the festive season.

Help set manageable goals

Cancer patients may struggle with feeling out of control due to their diagnosis and treatment. One way to empower them is by helping them set small, manageable goals that cater to their current physical and emotional state. The holiday season may bring a desire to participate in festivities, but it’s essential to prioritise their well-being.
Encourage your loved one to set realistic physical goals, such as a daily 10-minute walk to improve both fitness and mental well-being.

Small dietary improvements can also promote energy and strength. With fatigue being a common side effect of treatment, offering to help prepare nutritious meals or snacks can be a wonderful gesture.

Lend an ear

Cancer treatment can be lonely and isolating, especially during the holidays when everyone else seems to be celebrating. Sometimes the best support comes from simply listening to loved one wants to vent their frustrations, share their fears, or reminisce about happier times.

Offer to spend time together without forcing the holiday cheer. An afternoon in watching a movie or enjoying a cup of tea might be all they need.

Encourage laughter and lightness

The emotional toll of cancer treatment is heavy, but moments of lightness and humour can help alleviate some of the burden. Laughter is a natural stress reliever, releasing endorphins and providing a welcome distraction from the daily challenges of treatment.

Even small, humorous moments can make a big difference in helping cancer patients feel more connected.

Assist with appointments

Navigating appointments, treatments, and medications can be overwhelming, especially during the holiday season when schedules are often disrupted. Offer to help by organising their appointments in a calendar or setting reminders for medications. You could even volunteer to drive them to appointments or sit with them during treatments.

Create opportunities for connection

While some cancer patients may feel like withdrawing during the holidays, maintaining a strong support system is crucial. Help them stay connected to family and friends by organising low-key, intimate gatherings over the holiday season. Instead of large parties, opt for small get-togethers with a few loved ones, which can be less tiring and easier to manage.

Give thoughtful, practical gifts

While holiday gifts are a lovely tradition, consider giving thoughtful, practical gifts that can provide comfort and ease.

The holiday season is a time to come together and support one another, and cancer patients need that support more than ever. Through small acts of kindness, compassion, and presence, you can help them feel seen, valued, and loved, even during one of the most challenging seasons of their life.

Osara Health support

By focusing on practical, emotional, and meaningful support, you can make a lasting impact on your loved one’s holiday season, helping them feel connected and empowered during their cancer journey.