You’ve watched your loved one endure months of chemotherapy and now they are finally almost done! Chemo treatment can be an extremely grueling process, and getting to the end of treatment is certainly cause for celebration.
Just be aware that it can also be a time of anxiety and uncertainty.
What will the future hold?
How will I feel?
Will I be able to return to my previous level of activity?
These are only some of the many questions in your loved ones mind. They will also more than likely be fatigued and emotionally drained. While you definitely would want to celebrate the end of treatment, you’ll just need to be mindful about the kind of party you plan.
Here are some ideas to help you celebrate the end-of-chemo:
What are some ideas for end of chemo celebrations?
For many cancer patients, the end of chemo marks a significant milestone in their treatment journey. It can be a time of mixed emotions, so it’s important to do something special to celebrate this accomplishment with your loved one.
Here are some ideas for end of chemo celebrations to help your loved one ring in this momentous occasion. From low-key gatherings to festive parties, there are plenty of ways to show your support and excitement:
Choose a party theme
Have a unifying theme from the invitations to plates and paper napkins. The theme doesn’t necessarily have to be something related to cancer. It can also be inspirational, hopeful and future-focused.
Check out this customizable inspirational birds in a tree end of chemo collection to symbolize new life and hope for the future.
If you would like to plan a variation of the pink ribbon party, check out these pink-themed party ideas.
A party theme that resonates with everyone, young and old alike, is the Tree of Life Party.
Plan their dream party
Plan a party that you know they would love. This doesn’t mean a large party at the most expensive restaurant in town. It would most likely be a small get-together with close friends, or a day at the spa. It could even be a short holiday away at a resort.
Make it about them
Think of all their favorite things and activities and incorporate that into the party. Make a special item for your loved one to commemorate their last chemo treatment, such as a customized t-shirt, mug or pillow with inspirational words. Make them feel special and triumphant for being so strong and brave.
Check it out on ZazzleMake it about the family
Make it an intimate party only for your closest friends and family. Surprise your loved one with a video collage of family and friends with special messages of encouragement. Have everyone make a little speech about your loved one.
Thank you party
Maybe your loved one doesn’t like the limelight and would rather have the party be about everyone else. If your friends and family have rallied around to help make chemo a bit easier, take the opportunity to celebrate and thank everyone who helped you through this difficult time.
Have a Donation Drive Party
Cancer is a terrible disease that takes the lives of thousands of people every year. It’s important to do what we can to fight this disease. A great way to raise money for cancer research is to have a donation drive party.
It’s a great way to celebrate finishing chemo and to raise awareness and money for cancer. Use the party as a donation drive to support others who are fighting cancer and for cancer research.
Check it out on ZazzleWhat are some things to consider when planning an end of chemo celebration?
There are a few things you can do to celebrate a loved one who has finished chemotherapy, but it is important to be mindful of their needs. Before you go crazy on the guest list and plan a party til midnight, consider these factors:
- what kind of celebration does your loved one wants? A big, noisy party? Or an intimate get-together with close family and friends
- what are their symptoms and side effects from treatment? If you know they will feel most unwell for the first few days after treatment, consider having a delayed celebration, maybe a week or two after when they are feeling better
- are they immunosuppressed from treatment? If they are, exposing them to a big party may not be the best idea
Is a surprise end-of-chemo party a good idea?
A surprise party can be fun and exciting, but may not be the best idea for someone who has just gone through a few bad surprises, starting with the cancer diagnosis.
It’s generally a good idea to suss out if your loved one is up for an end-of-treatment party or even wants one. You don’t have to tell them everything. You can keep some details a secret like the kind of cake you’ll get or the activities and gifts you have planned for the night.
What are some things to avoid when celebrating a loved one finishing chemotherapy?
When a loved one finishes chemotherapy, it is understandable that you want to celebrate. However, there are a few things to avoid during this time:
- Unless your loved one is super outgoing and wants a rip-roaring party, most cancer patients prefer intimate get-togethers for the end-of-chemo party
- Alcohol is a no-no for many reasons. It’s OK to have a drink but don’t make the booze the star of the party. Alcohol can actually interact with chemotherapy drugs and potentially cause serious side effects.
- Even if your loved one used to party the night away, they will most certainly not be up to it now. Make sure the party has a cap on it. A 2-3 hour get-together is probably ideal. Let guests know beforehand that it will be a short get-together so there are no laggers.
Celebrating the end of chemotherapy is a must because it’s a great achievement. Be sure to talk to your loved one about their feelings and what they would like to do to celebrate.
