There are many ways to honor a loved one after they pass. Some people keep a special item to remind them of their loved one. Some people get meaningful tattoos. And some people look for ways to bring them closer to their loved ones even after their passing. One of the more common ways this is done is through commemorative travel.  What is Commemorative Travel? Commemorative travel is a way to honor someone by visiting a location significant to that person. It can be visiting somewhere that person dreamt of traveling to, a place with a fond memory of that person, or a destination of great significance to their loved one. It invites an opportunity to feel deeply connected while processing grief.  How Does One Embark on a Commemorative Trip? In 2010, Martin Sheen and Emilio Estevez starred in The Way, a film about a father taking a commemorative pilgrimage along the Camino de Santiago in honor of his deceased son. The Camino de Santiago is a spiritual and physical journey in which travelers, or pilgrims, walk through Spain. Many paths lead to Santiago, with the most popular covering 500 miles. People take to the Camino de Santiago for many reasons, but in memory of a loved one is a common theme amongst pilgrims because of the opportunity for quiet reflection and meaningful connection.  The Impact of Commemorative Travel “I walked a Camino in 2016 for my daughter Lindsay who had breast cancer,” Shared Patti H. “She fought it for 12 years before we lost her. She was amazingly strong and smart. She and I bought glass hearts which I carried to [a sentimental place on the Camino de Santiago].” “I walked in memory of my sweet husband who died of brain cancer at just 58,” Katy B reflected. “He was the funniest, kindest, and best guy – loved by everyone, especially me. I passed out cards with a photo of a tree growing out of rock. It had the caption ‘You Can’t’ shouted the rock, ‘Just Watch Me’ whispered the tree. I wanted to encourage people to remember that even when things seem impossible, like moving forward in grief, we’re stronger than we think. Just like the tree.” “I walked part of the Camino in honor of my husband who passed away from pancreatic cancer,” Patrice A shared. “His name is on my Compostela [certificate of completion] under mine.” “I walked in memory of my mom who passed away from cancer,” Carolyn B said. “I arrived in Santiago one year to the day after I last talked to her and saw her smile. The Camino was for her, but I dedicated each day to family and friends who helped me through the incredibly painful year.”  Consider a Commemorative Trip Commemorative travel allows those grieving a unique opportunity to process their grief and commence their own healing journey. Whether this meaningful travel is across the ocean to the Camino de Santiago or a quiet beach just down the road, the opportunity to pause, reflect, and accept can undoubtedly be life-changing.  How Your Commemorative Trip Can Impact Cancer Research Fill your […]

Many people view vacation as a great way to de-stress from everyday life. But how relaxing is it? More than 55% of recent flyers said the process of air travel is actually more stressful than going to work. What? Vacation Stress Planning a vacation can be exciting and fun, but no doubt that much stress accompanies it. Coordinating travel dates, booking tickets, packing bags, and trying to arrive at the airport at the perfect time is exhausting. Plus, these steps don’t even include COVID-19 screening obstacles! Luckily, unlike most stress-inducing activities, travelers can significantly minimize travel-related stress with a few tips and tricks.  How to Stress Less Ahead of Travel 1. Packing Hacks Packing is a science, and a well-packed bag can bring peace and calm. Travelers who pack several days beforehand benefit from strategically planning their outfits, folding in a way to optimize space, and feeling confident with their choices. Packing last minute often means both over-packing and forgetting important items. 2. Airline Research Some airlines are just better suited for your needs. While a bargain of a flight is always attractive, ending up in a tiny aircraft with added fees for every piece of luggage (you know who you are) can add mega stress. Some airlines are even committed to de-stressing the travel lifestyle.  3. Timing, Timing, Timing Did you know that flights scheduled earlier in the day are less likely to be delayed or canceled? For those who can, booking early and reducing those chances might save a vacation a whole ‘lotta stress.  4. Skip the Line  Does the idea of running late fill you with dread? It might be worth exploring TSA PreCheck or Global Entry to skip to the front of the security checkpoint and carry on your way to the gate with ease. 5. Protect the Trip Sometimes things go wrong – it’s unavoidable! Book flights and other reservations with a flexible policy to keep peace of mind. Also, many travel insurances can help protect travel plans – some are even included with credit cards. 6. Ask for Help Airports are big and can be exhausting for cancer patients and non-patients alike. For those who might struggle to navigate the airport – or who may feel overwhelmed trying to locate their gate – avoid stress by asking for help early. Never be shy to ask for directions or assistance, as there are plenty of services in place to support travelers.  7. Destination Research Whether you are a cancer patient or not, knowing the lay of the land at your destination will help derail stress. Such as knowing how to travel from the airport to your accommodation, learning the currency conversion, if applicable, and locating healthcare providers and hospitals (including addresses and phone numbers) before you depart.  8. Engage your Medical Team If you have any health concerns, speak to a doctor well before planning a trip as a precaution. Some people with cancer may not be able to fly because oxygen levels and air pressure changes at high altitudes can be dangerous. Others are at risk for increased swelling. Your doctor may recommend wearing […]