Chinese New Year (CNY) is a time for family, love, and celebration. At OncoCare Cancer Centre, we understand the difficulties of managing cancer care during festive times, and we’re here to help caregivers of loved ones with cancer.

Here are some practical tips to help you through this festive season.

Rethink Traditions: Keeping It Simple and Comfortable

CNY traditions are about connection, not complexity. When caring for someone with cancer, prioritise comfort and simplicity:

• Small Gatherings at Home: Instead of large parties, keep celebrations intimate with close family members.
• Virtual Reunions: Use video calls to connect with relatives who can’t be there in person, making sure your loved one feels part of the festivities.
• Gentle Decorations: Keep the festive spirit alive with simple decorations that don’t require too much effort or energy.

Choosing the Right Foods: Nutritious and Festive Options

Food is at the heart of CNY celebrations, but it’s essential to adapt dishes to suit your loved one’s health needs. Here are some ideas:

• Lighter Versions of Festive Foods: Offer steamed fish, soft tofu, or vegetable-rich soups with lean proteins that are easier to digest for cancer patients.
• Healthier Snacks: Replace traditional treats with homemade or low-sugar alternatives. No raw foods should be served, as they may carry bacteria, and lou hei (raw fish salad) is not recommended. Avoid overnight food, as it can be harder to digest and may cause discomfort during cancer treatment.
• Small Portions: Offer smaller servings to avoid overwhelming them, especially if they have a reduced appetite.
• Soothing Drinks: Serve warm honey ginger tea or light herbal soups to help with digestion and provide comfort.

Plan Ahead: Make Things Easier for Everyone

CNY can be busy, so planning is key to reducing stress.

• Meal Prep in Advance: Prepare meals in smaller batches ahead of time, or consider ordering from a trusted caterer with healthy options.
• Ask for Help: Share tasks like cooking, cleaning, or grocery shopping with family and friends.
• Time for Rest: Schedule short breaks for your loved one (and yourself) to recharge during the festivities.

Supporting Emotional Well-Being

The CNY season can bring up mixed emotions for someone living with cancer. Here’s how to create a positive, supportive environment:

• Listen with Love: Take time for heart-to-heart talks. Discuss your loved one’s needs and priorities as CNY gatherings bring people together, and ensure their emotional well-being is prioritised.
• Celebrate the Little Things: Even a quiet meal together or watching a favourite TV show can be a moment to cherish.
• Take Care of Yourself Too: Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup. Take time to rest and recharge so you can be there for them.

Modern Ways to Celebrate: Embracing Change

A little creativity can go a long way in making CNY enjoyable and stress-free:

• E-Ang Paos: Send red packets digitally to save time and reduce physical strain. It’s common to use PayNow or PayLah these days.
• Online Shopping: Purchase decorations, snacks, and gifts online to avoid crowded malls.
• Streaming Festivities: Watch CNY celebrations or lion dance performances online together from the comfort of home.

Create New Traditions Together

If traditional celebrations feel too overwhelming, start new ones that bring joy and connection:

• Cooking Together: Prepare simple dishes that you and your loved one can enjoy making together.
• Sharing Gratitude: Take a moment to share what you’re thankful for as a family.
• Giving Back: Spread the CNY spirit by donating to a cancer charity or helping others in need.

Final Thoughts

Caring for someone with cancer during CNY doesn’t mean you have to give up the joy of the season. By simplifying traditions, choosing health-conscious foods, and creating moments of love and connection, you can still create joyful celebrations and memories.

OncoCare Cancer Centre is here to support cancer patients and caregivers every step of the way. Reach out to us for advice and care.

“Expert knowledge means better care for cancer”