Cancer Resource Center PROGRAM GUIDEPROGRAM GUIDE2022FocusOn:NewlyDiagnosed Providing helpful tools, encouragement and support to empower those who are diagnosednewly Focus On: Newly DiagnosedFALLPrograms for Individuals Affected by a Cancer Diagnosis October • November • December
1310 Waterford Drive Aurora, IL 60504 (331) Mondaywaterfordcrc.com301-5280Hours:throughFriday9a.m.to5p.m. Closed November 24 and 25 for Thanksgiving and December 23 and 30 for Christmas and New Year’s Waterford Place Cancer Resource Center provides services and support, at no cost, to anyone affected by a cancer CONTENTSTABLESalonEducationaldiagnosis.PresentationsandSpaProgramsOF2 Newly Diagnosed1 3 6 8 Coping with Holiday Stress9 Support Programs 4 Mind, Body and Spirit Programs Wellness Programs 3 Family Programs
It can be frustrating to not be able to do the things you previously were able to do. Sudden physical limitations can be a real challenge to cope with. Side effects — such as fatigue, neuropathy, dizziness and pain — can make it difficult to engage in daily activities and routines. Often, these limitations are temporary. Talk to your medical team if you are experiencing any of these issues to see what changes can be made and what options are available. It can also help to talk to loved ones and accept assistance when possible. Allow yourself to explore new or even old interests that do not require you to expend as much of your energy but still help you feel connected to the things you love. Whatever you pursue, remember to be compassionate with yourself as you go through this.
• Managing Radiation Side Effects
Physical Limitations
Emotional Rollercoaster
Financial Stress
Cancer is costly and, for some people, working through treatment may not only be difficult but necessary. It is important to know your rights when it comes to issues such as employment, financial assistance and disability. Many organizations are dedicated to helping people with cancer avoid financial toxicity and protect themselves from discrimination. Some organizations focus on cancer type, while others may help based on where you live or other demographics. Talk to your oncology social worker if you have concerns about finances, need help applying for aid or want more information on your employment
rights. Ask for referrals to organizations that can help. Once you have the information you need, sit down and plan to solve the issues that are causing you stress. Feeling more in control can bring you more peace of Somemind.programs
You may experience a wide variety of emotions as you go through cancer treatment. From sadness or anger at having to accept a cancer diagnosis, to worries and fears about pain or prognosis, to gratitude for the love and support of family and friends — all of this is normal. It can be a little unnerving if you are a person who usually does not experience such shifts in mood but, given the scale of what you are going through, it is certainly understandable that you would feel differently than you usually do. If you start to feel that the stress is overwhelming or the emotions are unmanageable, it may help to talk to a professional. Professional counselors are trained in providing tools and support during challenging times in our
• Breast Cancer Pathology and Treatment — Explained
• Aromatherapy and You
• Achieve balance in your ‘New Normal’ with Tai Chi and Qi Gong
After a cancer diagnosis, many people find themselves in unfamiliar territory, navigating everything from physical changes to a whole host of different emotions. To help with this, Waterford Place offers several programs and services specifically designed to provide helpful tools, encouragement and support to empower those who have newly received a cancer diagnosis.
lives and can make a big difference in helping you process this experience so you can feel better sooner.
• Soothing your Worried Brain and Body
NEWLY DIAGNOSED
designed especially for those who are newly diagnosed can be found on page 2.
• Nutrition for Cancer Prevention — Recipe for Success
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Dealing with radiation-related side effects can be challenging, especially when you don’t know what to expect. Learn about typical side effects and how to manage
Not all breast cancers are created equally and understanding breast cancer pathology and how it may impact your treatment is important. This presentation will review the common breast cancer subtypes, hormone receptors, standard treatment plans and important details associated with it all.
Thre are many questions around aromatherapy and essential oils: How can they help? Are they safe for me? For my pets? How do I use them? Which ones are best for me and my caregivers? Join us for this presentation that will clarify myths and facts about aromatherapy.
All new participants are invited to attend an introductory orientation to discover the valuable resources available at Waterford Place.
By appointment only
Technology Consultation
Tuesday, December 6 • 1 to 2 p.m.
Need help connecting to virtual programs through your personal computer, laptop or tablet? Schedule a virtual or phone consultation for assistance with setting up an email or installing and using the Webex application on your device.
Welcome to Waterford Place
Pam Riley-Valesh, RN, Certified Clinical Aromatherapist
Jan Litvene, ACSW, LCSW
2 Fall
Cancer not only affects your physical health, it also affects your financial well-being. Several resources are available to help you manage the financial impact of cancer, including federally-funded programs and private nonprofit organizations. Schedule a virtual meeting with a financial navigator to learn what financial resources are available to you.
ResourcePersonalized2022FinancialConsultation
Nutrition for Cancer Prevention — Recipe for Success Wednesday, November 9 • 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Kristi Niedzwiecki, ACE Certified Fitness Instructor
Managing Radiation Side Effects Wednesday, November 16 • 6:30 to 7:30 Ellenp.m.M.Berg, MSN, RN, OCN
Orientation
Breast Cancer Pathology and Treatment — Explained
Learn the overall benefits of Tai Chi and Qi Gong and watch a brief demonstration. With gentle movements, these two internal energy exercises can help put your mind and body in harmony. You can strengthen your body, improve balance and bring peace and awareness into your life.
Learn about recent trends in nutrition related to cancer prevention, including plant-based foods, decreasing intake of processed foods and increasing intake of whole foods and lean proteins.
When you or someone you love has cancer, worry can get out of hand, diminishing your energy levels and ability to concentrate. It is important to identify your worries, especially those you can control, and prioritize what you need to take care of now. This presentation will offer strategies to help you decrease worrying and its intensity and gain more feelings of peace.
Aromatherapy and You
Achieve Balance in Your ‘New Normal’ with Tai Chi and Qi Gong
Rush Copley Medical Center
By appointment only
them. A question-and-answer session will follow the presentation.
EDUCATIONAL PRESENTATIONS
Wednesday, October 19 • 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Oleaha Pilant, RN, MSN, APN, FNP-C, CGRA
Tuesday, November 8 • 1 to 2 p.m.
Michelle Cordes, MS, RD, LDN
Rush Copley Cancer Care Center
Rush Copley Cancer Care Center
Soothing Your Worried Brain and Body Tuesday, November 29 • 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
By appointment only
Ellen M. Berg, MSN, RN, OCN
Wednesday, October 26 • 6:30 to 8 p.m. Caring Arts Foundation
complete with a winter backdrop and festive props. Color holiday pages and winter mandalas while you wait your turn. Refreshments will be provided. Space is limited. Register early.
Thursday, November 17 • 5 to 8 p.m. Caring Arts Foundation
Short-term counseling to address cancer-related issues is available to those diagnosed with cancer and their families. Up to five sessions are provided to address sadness, worries, communication, returning to work, body esteem and other similar issues as they relate to a cancer diagnosis.
By appointment only
Presents for Patients
Our groups allow participants to connect with others experiencing similar circumstances. Goals are to exchange information and strategies for decision-making, help navigate the cancer journey and allow participants to connect, share and exchange support.
Men’s Group
Second Thursdays: October 13, November 10 and December 8 1:30 to 3 p.m.
Third Mondays: October 17, November 21 and December 19 • 6:30 to 8 p.m.
FAMILY PROGRAMS
Short-TermOncology-Focused,Counseling
Provided through a partnership with AccentCare
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By appointment only
Breast FRIENDs (First Resource in Experiencing and Navigating a Diagnosis)
Fourth Tuesdays: October 25, November 22 and December 27 • 6:30 to 8 p.m. This group is open to men who have had a cancer diagnosis. It is facilitated by a licensed clinical social worker who is also a prostate cancer survivor. A light dinner will be provided.
Affiliated with the International Myeloma Foundation, this group is open to those diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma and their loved ones. To sign up, please contact Valarie Traynham, group leader, at aurora@IMFsupport.org or (630) 423-6510.
Bring the kids for some Halloween fun, artfully done! Enjoy spooky music while you and your family “Design Your Own Trickor-Treat Bag” and “Make a Mask.” Mad Zac, our resident mixologist, will help you create your own mocktail potion with ingredients of your choice. Each child will receive a commemorative beaker keepsake to take home. Wear a costume — we all will! Space is limited. Please register immediate family members only.
Gyne SISTERs (Sharing Inspiration and Support Through Education and Resources)
Grief Counseling
Open to those who have had a gynecological cancer diagnosis, Gyne SISTERs is co-facilitated by a licensed social worker and a registered nurse.
Third Mondays: October 17, November 21 and December 19 • 6 to 7:30 p.m. Facilitated by a licensed social worker and breast health navigator, Breast FRIENDs is for anyone experiencing a breast cancer diagnosis, regardless of treatment type or stage. This informal group provides support and a safe place to share experiences, successes and ongoing challenges.
Pose for a holiday photo with your family,
Family Holiday Photos
Aurora Multiple Myeloma Networking Group (Virtual Only)
First Wednesdays: October 5, November 2 and December 7 • 6 to 8 p.m.
Thursday, December 1 • 6 to 8 p.m. Take part in this festive, fun, familyfriendly evening of gift-making for the person in your life who has cancer. All supplies and instructions will be provided. Enjoy light refreshments and entertainment,COUNSELINGtoo.
For many, the grief experience that results from the death of a loved one can generate a myriad of feelings, confusion and questions. Talking with a bereavement specialist one-on-one about this can assist in the coping process.
Survivorship Support Group
SUPPORT PROGRAMS
This group is designed for those who have completed treatment and are looking for support as they transition into life after treatment. The informal group provides a safe place to share experiences, successes, and ongoing challenges for all persons living through and beyond cancer.
Hocus Pocus Family Focus
This one-on-one service is an energetic relaxation therapy that offers stress reduction, mental clarity, relief of pain, improved sleep and other benefits.
Craft and Chat
Wednesdays: October 12, November 9, and December 14 • 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Join us to chat, drink tea or coffee and work on your crafting project. Bring your knitting, crochet, needlepoint, coloring or whatever project you are working on. This is an informal participant gathering not led by a facilitator.
Earring and Bracelet Set
Sandy LaBianco-Brown, Certified Vibrational Sound Therapist
Monday, November 14 • 6 to 7 p.m. Sandy LaBianco-Brown, Reiki Master
By appointment only
Fridays: October 21, November 18, and December 16 • 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Tuesday, October 18 • 1 to 2 p.m.
Sandy LaBianco-Brown, Reiki Master
Are you looking for opportunities to pay it forward by helping other cancer patients on the journey? Join the Waterford Place Giving Back Society to brainstorm ideas and participate in activities that make a difference in the cancer community.
Thursday, October 20 • 1 to 2 p.m. Thursday, November 17 • 1 to 2 p.m. Thursday, December 15 • 1 to 2 p.m.
Vibrational Sound Therapy
Reiki
Boo-tiful Friendly Ghost
HeartMath Meditation Audrey Stoppel, BSN, RN, Radiation Oncology Rush Copley Medical Center
Celebrate Halloween a little early as you create your own ghost earring and bracelet set. Wear your favorite Halloween shirt, too. A light snack will be served.
Giving Back Society
Sandy LaBianco-Brown, Reiki Master, and Karen Jendruczek, Reiki Practitioner
Experience a deep relaxation and meditation when you attend this sound healing session. Immerse yourself in healing sounds designed to promote relaxation and balance for both body and mind.
Guided Meditation
This guided imagery experience incorporates cleansing breathwork and an array of relaxation techniques designed to balance emotions, decrease physical and psychological distress, and promote the practice of living in the moment.
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Lisa Lapinski
MIND, BODY AND SPIRIT PROGRAMS
Vibrational sound therapy is a one-on-one service using Himalayan singing bowls gently placed on the body to promote total relaxation and decrease the effects of stress on the body and mind. The tones and vibrations combine to produce an immediate state of tranquility as sound waves act like a massage for the nervous system.
By appointment only
Wednesdays: October 12, November 2, and December 7 • 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Audrey Stoppel, BSN, RN, Radiation RushOncologyCopley Medical Center
Discover HeartMath Meditation, a simple, yet powerful, meditative technique that uses heart-focused breathing to improve clarity, harmony of the mind and body, and balance. It can help you shift your emotional state and calm your mind. The same class is offered each month; choose the date that fits your schedule.
Sound Healing Meditation
Many ancient cultures incorporated the symbol of a Tree of Life into their art using themes like nature, life cycles, growth, wholeness and renewal. Fruits of the tree represented love, compassion, generosity, wisdom, courage and other human attributes. Create your own Tree of Life art. We’ll provide a choice of media (paint, markers or colored pencils) plus idea starters. Reflect on the past year. What are you grateful for? Put those symbolic elements into your tree.
Mixed Media Art Class: Autumn Leaf Print Art
Barbara Weigand
Collect some interesting leaves and bring them to class! We’ll provide a bunch, too, but the hunt for interesting shapes and sizes of leaves is part of the fun. We’ll use craft paint and rollers to create interesting prints of falling leaves, then you can add your own decorative touches to create wall art to frame. When the winter trees are bare, you’ll have a lovely remembrance of autumn. Paint, paper and instruction provided.
Tuesday, October 25 • 1:30 to 3 p.m.
Mixed Media Art Class: Pumpkins and Gourds
MIND, BODY AND SPIRIT PROGRAMS
The art of still life was first created by ancient Egyptians as tomb art. The Romans painted them as fres coes. Impressionists and modern painters, like Picasso, added their own style. To appreciate, study and sketch or paint a basic object is at the heart of visual arts. Take a simple gourd or pumpkin and interpret it your way using paint, pastels or even crayons — your choice. Examples and all materials provided.
Barbara Weigand
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Mixed Media Art Class: Art and Symbolism
Tuesday, November 22 • 1:30 to 3 p.m.
Tuesday, December 27 • 1:30 to 3 p.m.
Barbara Weigand
Restorative yoga is a gentle, calming, therapeutic yoga that cultivates relaxation and balance and uses props to support the body. Each restorative pose will be held for five to six minutes to release tension and deepen relaxation.
Judy Siek, 500 eCYT, Certified Cancer Exercise Trainer and Group Fitness Instructor
Judy Siek, 500 eCYT, Certified Cancer Exercise Trainer and Group Fitness Instructor
Nutrition Consultations
WEEKLY MondaysMOVEMENTVIRTUALPROGRAMS
Mondays
Wednesdays
9:30 to 10:30 a.m. — Tai Chi/ Moving Meditation
Restorative Yoga
Wednesdays
6 Fall 2022
12:30 to 1 p.m.— Group Movement: Level 1
Tai Chi/Moving Meditation
Center yourself as you become aware of your own energy, while relaxing and strengthening your body without injury or strain. Tai chi is an ancient form of meditative exercise that helps to harmonize mind and body. A simplified routine is taught with traditional postures and slow soft movements.
• 12:30 to 1 p.m.
Designed for those who are newly diagnosed or in active treatment, this class will help you feel better physically, mentally
Nutrition consultations are available for anyone diagnosed with cancer at any stage of diagnosis. Our registered dietitian will discuss meal preparation and current diet trends and help you manage treatment-related side effects and choose healthier foods.
Gentle Pilates
5:30 to 6:30 p.m. — Gentle Yoga
11 to 11:45 a.m. — LymphedemaFocused Movement
Mondays
• 5 to 6 p.m.
11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. — Group Movement: Level 2
Group Movement: Level 1
Tuesdays
Judy Siek, 500 eCYT, Certified Cancer Exercise Trainer and Group Fitness Instructor
WELLNESS PROGRAMS
10 to 10:45 a.m. — Gentle Pilates
and emotionally. Physical activity can reduce fatigue, increase endurance, boost energy levels and improve mood. With the use of bands, light weights and other props, you will build or rebuild strength and stamina.
Designed for those who have completed treatment, this class offers a mix of exercise, yoga and Pilates to help you gain or regain strength, mobility and endurance. If you’re looking for more of a challenge, this class is a step above in intensity in comparison to the other classes offered at Waterford Place.
Group Movement: Level 2
Gentle Yoga
By appointment only Michelle Cordes, MS, RD, LDN Rush Copley Medical Center
Tuesdays
5 to 6 p.m — Restorative Yoga
No experience is necessary, and all supplies are provided. Caregivers are encouraged to attend with the person living with cancer.
Wednesdays
• 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
• 10 to 10:45 a.m.
Low impact Pilates is a series of exercises that develop the body’s strength, flexibility and control.
Judy Siek, 500 eCYT, Certified Cancer Exercise Trainer and Group Fitness Instructor
Chitra Singh, Certified Yoga Instructor
Wednesdays
Kristi Niedzwiecki, ACE Certified Fitness Instructor
• 11 to 11:45 a.m.
• 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.
This class will address cancer-related lymphedema through gentle movement and stretches for both the upper and lower body. Modifications are offered so that everyone can participate safely. A yoga mat is recommended.
Mondays
Achieve a higher state of mindfulness while building strength and balance. This gentle yoga class will help you manage cancer by tapping into your mind-body connection to improve overall wellness. Modifications are offered so that everyone can participate safely.
MovementLymphedema-Focused
Mary Keane, RYT200
• 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.
Salmon with Walnut Pesto Thursday, October 6 • 6 to 7 p.m. Learn to prepare fresh salmon with a vegan pesto sauce. This fish is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, which help with cellular function, nervous system regulation and inflammatory responses,
1 (14-15 oz) can tomato sauce (no salt added)
Preparation:
among other important processes. This recipe is bursting with flavor and good fat.
WELLNESS PROGRAMS
1 onion, chopped
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
1 Tbsp chili powder
2. Heat the vegetable oil in large pot over medium heat. Stir in onion and cook until onion softens and turns translucent (about 5 minutes). Add garlic, chili powder and cumin; cook and stir 1 minute to release flavors. Stir in tomatoes, black beans, bell peppers, zucchini, jalapeno pepper and oregano.
Quinoa and Black Bean Chili Recipe
Learn more about seafood while exploring new ingredients and recipes in this fall series.
1 tsp dried
1 zucchini, chopped
3. After 20 minutes, stir in quinoa and corn, cook to reheat corn for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the cilantro to serve.
1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced
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¼1Salt/pepperoreganototastecupfrozencorncupchoppedfresh
cilantro
1 cup uncooked quinoa, rinsed
Season to taste with salt and pepper. Simmer over high heat, then reduce heat to medium low, cover and simmer 20 minutes.
Ingredients
2 (19 oz) cans black beans, rinsed and
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 Tbsp vegetable oil
Did you know that seafood is low in saturated fats, high in protein and packed full of important nutrients including omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin A and B? These nutrients are essential to maintaining good health and particularly important for the health of your brain, eyes and immune system.
Tilapia with Mango Pineapple Salsa Thursday, November 10 • 6 to 7 p.m. This delicious healthy tilapia recipe will be a hit with the whole family. Tilapia is a mild-flavored white fish loaded with protein and nutrients. It is easy to prepare and pairs nicely with our sweet and tangy fruit salsa topping.
Quinoa Crab Cakes with Lemon Dill Sauce
1drainedgreen bell pepper, chopped
Thursday, December 8 • 6 to 7 p.m. Vegetarians will enjoy this seafood alternative dish: “crab” cakes that appear traditional with their bold and delicious flavor but are made with hearts of palm, chickpeas and artichokes. They are vegetarian, gluten-free and really tasty!
1 Tbsp ground cumin
Grace Esler, MS, RDN, LDN
1. Bring quinoa and broth to a boil in saucepan over high heat. Reduce heat to medium low, cover and simmer until the quinoa is tender and the broth has been absorbed, about 15-20 minutes. Set aside.
2 cups vegetable broth
4 garlic cloves, chopped
Healing Kitchen Seafood Series
Friday, October 14 • 10 to 11:30 a.m.
By appointment only
Pam Riley-Valesh, RN, Certified Clinical Aromatherapist, Reflexologist, Healing Touch Spiritual Ministry Practitioner
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Simply Beautiful Skin
Oncology Facials
Glow From Head to Toe
Friday, November 11 • 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Simply Beautiful Hair
Jenny Burns, Licensed Cosmetologist and Medical Hair Loss Expert
If you need help managing hair changes related to cancer treatment, this class is for you. Topics to be covered include initial hair loss, wigs and head coverings, hair regrowth and safe products that can help with achieving your hair care goals. The class is offered each month to accommodate different schedules.
Individual consultations are available to help you manage skin changes due to cancer treatment. Services include a comprehensive review of products and cosmetics, recommendations for oncology-safe products, and addressing skin-related issues.
Reflexology
Monday, October 17 • 2 to 3 p.m.
The practice of reflexology involves massaging or applying pressure to various acupressure points on the foot to reduce stress and support overall health.
By appointment only Michelle Haugen, LMT, CLT Rachel Cordova, LMT Oncology massage combines compassion and specialized massage treatments to decrease treatment-related side effects, reduce stress and pain, and improve perceived quality of life.
By appointment only
Monday, December 5 • 6 to 7:30 p.m.
By appointment only Geralyn O'Brien and Kate Romano, Licensed and Oncology-Focused Estheticians
Monday, December 19 • 2 to 3 p.m.
By appointment only
Customized Comfort Session
Pam Riley-Valesh, RN, Certified RachelReflexologistCordova, Certified Reflexologist
treatment-related hair changes, customizable complimentary wigs, wig care, options for head coverings, and assistance with styling hair as it grows back.
Urban Zen Integrative Therapy uses a variety of complementary therapy modalities that include breathwork, body awareness meditation, restorative poses, Reiki and essential oils to help ease discomfort. Schedule an appointment to learn how small things can help you to feel better in a big way.
Cancer treatments may leave the skin dry, sensitive and lacking proper nutrients,
Geralyn O’Brien, Licensed and Oncology-Focused Esthetician Developed to help you manage skin changes during cancer treatment, this class will demonstrate how to implement a skin care regimen with safe products and enhance your natural beauty using the timeless principle of simplicity. The same class is offered each month to accommodate different schedules.
Geralyn O’Brien, Licensed and Oncology-Focused Esthetician Sandy LaBianco-Brown, Certified Vibrational Sound Therapist Spend a relaxing evening pampering yourself from head to toe! Participants will create a gentle foot soak and sugar scrub and receive a kit with pampering items. The night includes a sound healing meditation. Please let us know of any aller gies or sensitivities to ingredients in advance.
Waterford Place Wig Boutique and Salon
Salon services are available for those experiencing hair loss due to cancer treatments. Services include addressing
By appointment only
Geralyn O'Brien and Kate Romano, Licensed and Oncology-Focused Estheticians
Oncology Skin Care Consultations
SALON AND SPA PROGRAMS
Monday, November 21 • 2 to 3 p.m.
and traditional skin care methods and products can sometimes do more harm than good. When skin is compromised, it needs products that are safe and gentle to bring it back to health. Geralyn or Kate will assess your skin care needs and provide appropriate treatment to help restore and maintain healthy skin.
UZIT (Urban Zen Integrative Therapy)
Friday, December 9 • 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Oncology Massage
5. Be realistic. Expecting that the holidays will be the same as in previous years may be
unrealistic. Many things have changed, and acknowledging those changes will help you develop realistic expectations. Remove yourself from an “all or nothing” mindset. You can have a magical, joyful holiday season as long as you appreciate what is instead of trying to meet expectations you don’t have control over. Don’t worry about how things “should be.” As the late Toni Morrison said, “(When you) trade your expectations for appreciation, the world changes
Stressinstantly.”isinevitable. Take the time to discover what stress-reducing techniques work for you. Be grateful for what is and practice self-compassion. Appreciate the beauty of what the holidays truly mean to you.
1. Identify the source of stress. It is common to feel stress and intense emotions during the holidays, even without a cancer diagnosis. You may feel stress due to grief, finances, fears, worries, side effects of treatment, family pressures or some other reason. When you identify the source of your stress, you move to identifying what you can control.
Even with a cancer diagnosis, you can choose to be grateful and enjoy the beauty of the season
5
Tips To Manage Holiday Stress
2. Recognize your emotions. Like stress, emotions are inevitable and it’s important to recognize them. The goal is to acknowledge what you are feeling without letting these emotions consume you. While you cannot control the thoughts and emotions that come up, you can control how much attention you give them. Deep breathing, meditating, yoga, journaling and verbalizing what you think and feel can help you organize your thoughts and emotions.
In identifying your stressors, you also learn that it’s OK to set limits. Sometimes we feel that we must engage in all holiday activities, so we don’t disappoint others. It’s important to recognize and prioritize yourself, your preferences and your health. Recognize your limits and desires ahead of time. Ask yourself: “What is important to me during the holidays?” Remember that you have a choice, you have control over what you do or do not do, and it is OK to listen to yourself.
The holiday season can be a wonderful, yet stressful, time. Because of media portrayals, we often expect magic, joy and extravagance. We can get lost in unrealistic expectations. Adding a cancer diagnosis into the mix complicates things even further. The following tips can help you manage stress during the holidays.
4. Prioritize yourself. When it comes to relationships with others, be prepared to avoid toxic individuals, or practice methods that will help you confront them. Practice mantras like, “I open my heart and accept others as they Evenare.”though you may be surrounded by loved ones, you may feel lonely or isolated because others don’t understand the can cer journey. Support groups, volunteering, community programs and religious or spiritual events can help you develop a sense of validation, unity and purpose. Talking with a professional can also help.
9Fall 2022
3. It’s OK to say ‘no.’
Call (331) 301-5280 to schedule a virtual individualized consultation and orientation, available in English or Spanish. Next, please complete a Participant Information form available online at waterfordcrc.com. Registration is required for all programs. How to register: Online at waterfordcrc.com Call (331) 301-5280
Contact Us
Get Started with Us
Waterford Place is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed November 24 and 25 for Thanksgiving and December 23 and 30 for Christmas and New Year’s. Phone: (331) 301-5280 Email: Likewaterfordcrc.cominfo@waterfordcrc.comusonFacebook
Cancer Resource Center
Waterford Place is located at 1310 Waterford Drive • Aurora, IL 60504 Online at waterfordcrc.com Call (331) 301-5280
For more virtual programming, view and subscribe to Waterford Place’s YouTube channel.