Christmas can be a time of warmth, connection and treasured traditions. But when someone we love is no longer with us, the festive season can bring their absence into sharper focus.
We might find ourselves thinking about the things they would have said, the traditions we shared or the moments we wish we could experience with them one more time.
Everyone remembers and grieves differently. There is no right or wrong way to feel, and it is okay if Christmas feels different without them.
At Wessex Cancer Support, we understand that cancer can affect every part of life — for the person diagnosed, their family and the people left to navigate life after a loss.
Make an in memory donation
A cancer diagnosis can change life for an entire family. And when someone dies, the feelings that follow can be complicated, overwhelming and different for everyone.
Counselling can offer a safe space to talk, make sense of those feelings and find ways to cope, both during a loved one’s illness and after their death.
Becky experienced this support while caring for her dad and again after he died. With help from Wessex Cancer Support, she found ways to process her grief and begin to find herself again.
As Becky explains:
“They helped me keep my head above water and find myself again after such heartache.”
Give in their memory
£5 - a warm welcome
−Could help cover the cost of refreshments at one of our drop-in sessions within our four centres, or support groups, where people find connection and comfort.
£10 - support healing hands
+Could contribute to the cost of aromatherapy oils used in massage therapies that bring relief and relaxation.
£20 - finding calm
+Could help fund wellbeing services that ease anxiety and promote emotional recovery during tough times.
£45 - a conversation that changes everything
+Could fund a one-to-one counselling session, giving someone space to talk, process, and begin to heal.