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www.insideHALTON.com | OAKVILLE BEAVER | Thursday, December 31, 2015 | 36 ith the excitement of the holidays nearing its close, another festive season has of cially come along with a new year on the horizon. But, the holidays can bring about challenges for those coping with the loss of a loved one, or dealing with their own cancer journey. Wes Grant, of Scarborough, knows this all too well. In November 2014, he lost his wife, Tara, to cancer when she was only 39 years old. With a broken heart and mere weeks until Christmas, Wes was presented with yet another challenge: facing the holidays without her. "I felt so lost my rst Christmas without Tara. The holidays were always a special time for us," he said. "We would spend Christmas morning together, opening the gifts we got one an- Coping with cancer during the holiday season W other. The rest of Christmas day could be busy and a bit crazy, but those quiet moments between the two of us were so peaceful and loving." For people who have lost a loved one, or are experiencing their own cancer journey, it can be hard to know what to expect emotionally during the holidays. During this incredibly dif cult time, Wes found some ways to cope that made things a little easier. "Talk about your loved one, share memories with your friends and family and have them share with you -- it's what keeps the person with you," he advised. "And don't be afraid to be emotional when you think of your loved one. It's better to let it out than bottle it in." Wes also found it helpful to take time to himself when he needed it, but was careful not to isolate himself. "Friends and family can be a tremendous support to help you get through the holidays," he said. It's critical to take advantage of the support systems around you during these trying times. If you or someone you love is living with cancer or coping with loss this holiday season, the Canadian Cancer Society is here for you. Programs to help We have a variety of programs available to help: · Our webcast on Coping with Cancer During the Holidays, which can be viewed at cancerconnection.ca/webcasts; · Our Peer Support Service connects people living with cancer and caregivers with trained volunteers who can provide the unique perspective of having "been there"; · Our Cancer Information Service can answer questions about all types of cancer, Health "Connected to your Community" diagnostic tests, treatments, side effects and many other cancer-related topics; · CancerConnection.ca, our online community, is available for those who have cancer, cancer survivors and caregivers to connect and share their experiences; · Our Community Services Locator -- a searchable database of more than 4,000 cancer-related services and resources, including bereavement support groups -- can help you nd the information and support you need. You can visit our website cancer.ca or speak with one of our Cancer Information Specialists at 1-888-939-3333. "Our loved ones are never truly gone from us as long as they remain in our hearts," said Wes. "I wish you a Merry Christmas and hope that you take the time to spend with your loved ones. Put aside work, technology... and cherish the time -- it's not something you can get back once it's gone." -- submitted by the Canadian Cancer Society Helping Families Every Step of the Way! · Pediatrics · Pre and Postnatal Care · Naturally Turning Breech Babies · Headaches/Migraines · Fertility Issues · Low Back/Neck Pain · Sciatica · Posture · Osteoarthritis Why Do Oakville Families Trust Us with All Their Dental Needs? CosmetiC & Family Dentistry · implants invisalign · Dentures... From start to Finish! HAPPY NEW YEAR! 250 Wyecroft Rd., Unit 15, Oakville, ON Family Chiropractor/Acupuncture Wellness care for the entire family! 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