Cancer and Family:
Tis the Season
“There is nothing more important to me
as a physician than your cancer treatment.
I’ve been in practice for over two
decades and have had the privilege of
telling many patients that there is life
beyond cancer. As president of The Center
for Cancer and Blood Disorders, I want to
lead by example, practicing a firm belief
that all patients should receive the finest
medical care available, with the same
concern and compassion as a cherished
member of the family.”
Ray Page, D.O., Ph.D.
President and Medical Oncologist
The Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders
It is often said that one of the first places cancer spreads is to the
loved ones. Even in the most solid and committed family
relationships a diagnosis of cancer can create substantial
challenges. People with cancer can often feel alone and not
understood while at the same time, the family can feel helpless
and unsure of what to say and do.
This makes it especially hard during the holiday season we are in.
Without a doubt, family relations are always put to the test over
the holidays. We all have that Uncle Buck that we get psyched up
about how we are going to tolerate for a few days. Yet on the other
hand there are family members that we just can’t get enough of
and can’t wait to spend time with.
Unfortunately, cancer as a life transforming health problem can
impact those family dynamics to where we can experience the
good, bad, and ugly.
As often a catastrophic diagnosis for a person, I encourage folks
dealing with cancer in the family to use it as a catalyst for positive
change. Although plenty of negative and unbelievable stressors
can come in the wake of cancer, one can also seize that
opportunity to break down family barriers, mend relationships,
say unspoken words, and share love.
I have many cancer patients who know this will be their last
Christmas with family. They always remind me just how fragile
life is, and that life is indeed finite. They at least have a sense that
their final days are here, yet most of us don’t know when our day
is….it could even be tomorrow from a totally unexpected event.
So, my point is that we all should maximize our relationships
with our family and the ones we love the most as though there
may be no tomorrow – carpe diem. And for those difficult family
members, do you best to make “lemonade out of those lemons”.
Importantly, I challenge you to take on these holidays with family
and embrace your relationships as though this is your last, like
many of my cancer patients who are challenged to do this year.
Schedule appointments by calling
817-596-0637 or online at
www.thecentertx.com
Support services provided by:
Merry Christmas!
To learn more about cancer care issues or to consult with a physician
about a cancer diagnosis, contact us at 817.596.0637.
“The length of one’s days matters less than the love of one’s family
and friends.” – Gerald Ford
Most importantly, I want you to know that many families navigate
cancer and its family dynamics well. Certainly, in all relationships
during stressful times, there will be ups and downs. I am proud to
say that The Center offers psychological counseling, social
workers, financial counseling, navigators, case managers, and
clergy support to assist our patients through troubling times.
37