Blog

December 1, 2024

By Anne Dabbs, 
NCAN TN Support Group Leader, NET Patient

My annual November 1 trek to purchase discounted candies was disrupted this year. My usual bite-sized favorites were buried beneath mounds of holiday preparations. All I could see were displays of red and green, silver and blue! Did I actually miss Thanksgiving this year? I realized the world is moving too fast for me right now.

This realization reminded me that I’m not always a fan of the big show, the big displays, the over-the-top celebrations. This year, I need simplicity, calm, and time to savor the moment. All I want for Christmas is Simple Joy.

Anne Lamott recently wrote about the value and pleasures found in “the unremarkable moments.” This resonates deeply, especially as I reflect on a fall spent immersed in the everyday joys of after-school care for my grandchildren. These moments, while ordinary, brought immense gratitude and a much-needed reset.

Our oldest granddaughter delighted in showing off her newly acquired basketball skills, attempting to dribble while walking backward, skipping, and even whistling! Her creativity and enthusiasm reminded me of the joy of personalizing new activities. During my time with her cousin, who was adjusting to a new school and neighborhood, I watched her embrace her new environment with curiosity and confidence—a profound joy to witness.

Her younger brother and I shared hours of imaginative play on the floor with his beloved Hot Wheels. My only role was to be present, ask the occasional question, and provide enthusiastic “vroom” sounds. Then there was the unexpected laughter from my five-year-old grandson, who proudly shared their home security code with his preschool best friend. His innocent explanation—“So she can visit me anytime she wants!”—highlighted the sweet simplicity of his world, even as we gently explained why that wasn’t the best idea.

Those days, filled with unremarkable moments, brought me the most joy this fall. It was a timely reminder that normal, daily life abounds with gratitude and happiness when we pause to notice them.

For those living with neuroendocrine cancer or caring for someone who is, this lesson is especially poignant. Life with NETs often feels like a whirlwind of appointments, treatments, and tests. It’s easy to focus on the stress of the “big things” and overlook the small joys that surround us. But these simple pleasures—a peaceful cup of tea, a shared laugh, or a moment of quiet—are acts of self-care that nourish both mind and heart.

As we move into the holiday season, I encourage you to pause. Seek out those unremarkable moments and let them fill you with gratitude. Whether it’s sitting with loved ones, enjoying a favorite hobby, or simply taking a breath, these small joys can bring calm amidst the chaos.

At the NCAN, we understand the importance of finding joy and balance while navigating a NET diagnosis. It’s why we’re here — to support, educate, and provide a community where patients and caregivers can find comfort and connection. This season, let’s embrace the unremarkable moments and remember: simple joys are some of life’s greatest treasures.

Wishing you peace, health, and happiness this holiday season and always.