Christmas can look very different in a Huntington's disease family but we spoke to members of our community to see what traditions they have.
Megan
My family love Christmas jumpers. For me Christmas is all about the people you surround yourself with, it reminds you of the importance of the loved ones in your life and that time is ultimately precious.
Chloe
I started a tradition last year where I grow an Amaryllis around Christmas time to think about my grandad who died of Huntingtons before I was born. It’s my way of thinking about him and who he may have been as a person, and a way for me to help manage the grief of not being able to have had a relationship with him.
Cara
Me and my Husband still do Christmas how I did growing up! We each take it in turns to open our presents, appreciate them and then the next person opens theirs. I also have a bear that the funeral home gave me with a lock of my dad's hair in its tummy and he sits under our tree.
Fionnuala
Christmas arrives each year, as a sign of joy and togetherness. For families facing the complexities of Huntington's, this season's significance goes beyond the exchange of gifts—it's about the cherished rituals and special memories. In my household, culinary finesse might not be my dad's forte, but he's the maestro of our Christmas breakfast. While his culinary repertoire might reach to jacket potatoes and beans on toast throughout the year, when the holiday season comes knocking, he pulls out the apron and frying pan to cook us all up a brilliant breakfast. For those touched by Huntington's, routines can be a steadying force amidst uncertainty. These traditions, whether it's the familiar scent of bacon, or the anticipation of gathering around the breakfast table, these offer a sense of continuity and stability in a world that often feels unpredictable. In the face of a condition that alters lives, these moments become even more precious, grounding us in a shared experience that will last in our memories. It's not just about the food; it's about the stories shared, the laughter, and the unspoken understanding that these traditions bring us closer together. Christmas traditions are comforting, they help us whilst we’re navigating through the unknown and reminding us that the spirit of togetherness, and the joy of being with loved ones, remains unshakable. We’re not just indulging in a meal; we're celebrating resilience. These traditions become our legacy. So, here's to the magic of Christmas traditions—so simple yet they remind us of the importance of togetherness and resilience in adversity.
