In this episode, Cancer Thriver and Cancer Doula, Talaya Dendy discusses the challenges of navigating the holiday season while dealing with a cancer diagnosis. She shares tips for managing unrealistic expectations, setting boundaries, and prioritizing self-care. She also addresses the concerns of feeling like a burden or outcast at social gatherings. Listeners will gain valuable tips and resources to help them find joy and balance during the holiday season while managing their cancer journey.

✨Highlights from the show: 

[00:03:20] - Tips for Navigating Loneliness and Grief
[00:05:00] - Box Breathing Exercise
[00:07:45] - Cancer and the Holidays: Expectations vs. Reality
[00:12:30] - Managing Unrealistic Expectations
[00:15:50] - Communicating with Family and Friends
[00:18:20] - Setting Boundaries and Dealing with Questions
[00:21:00] - Prioritizing Self-Care and Creating New Traditions
[00:23:30] - Navigating Cancer Treatment During the Holidays
[00:27:00] - Free Resources for Support
[00:29:10] - Addressing Feelings of Being a Burden

Resources:

CancerCare - https://www.cancercare.org

Holiday Helpline - (800) 662-HELP (4357)

National Alliance for Caregiving - https://www.caregiving.org

Connect and learn more about Didi Hairston:

Website: https://www.divawithdepression.com

Podcast: https://www.divawithdepression.com/podcasts

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/divawdep

Connect and learn more about Talaya Dendy:

Website: https://www.ontheotherside.life

Sparkle Site: https://sprkl.es/ontheotherside/

Link To:

Tips to Manage Holiday Stress and Unrealistic Expectations on Amazon Music

Tips to Manage Holiday Stress and Unrealistic Expectations on Apple Podcasts

Tips to Manage Holiday Stress and Unrealistic Expectations on Spotify

Tips to Manage Holiday Stress and Unrealistic Expectations on iHeart Radio

Other Episodes You'll Enjoy

The Inspirational Caregiver

Diving Into Mental Health and Breaking the Stigma Part I

Diving Into Mental Health and Breaking the Stigma Part II

🎧Do you listen to music or podcasts on Spotify? ➕Add us to your listening queue. 

💌Join the NCT newsletter to stay in the loop about new episodes, events, products, and services. Join here: https://podcast.ausha.co/navigatingcancertogether?s=1.  

🦄About Me:

In 2011, I was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma, out of the blue. I did not have any prior health concerns or issues. Fast forward, the dreaded cancer diagnosis opened my eyes, introduced me to my purpose, and led me to where I am today. 

As a Cancer Doula, I use my 12 years of experience with cancer to support and guide others diagnosed with cancer. Many people are not familiar with what a cancer doula is. Think of me as your personal guide and patient advocate. Schedule a 30-minute Meet and Greet call to confidentially share the challenges you are facing and learn more about how I can support you. https://bit.ly/OTOSDiscovery

Learn more about On the Other Side at https://www.ontheotherside.life/. Connect with me on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/talayadendy/), or sign up for my bi-weekly newsletter  (https://bit.ly/OTOSNewsletter) to get valuable information and resources that can help you navigate cancer. 

🙏🏼Thanks for joining us for this episode of Navigating Cancer TOGETHER!

💜If you found this podcast helpful, why not spread the love and share it with others? Together, we can help more people benefit from this valuable resource!

Disclaimer: The information on this podcast is for general informational purposes only and SHOULD NOT be relied upon as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, evaluation, or care from your physician or other qualified health care provider.