5 Ways to Make Thanksgiving as Enjoyable as Possible If You Have a Feeding Tube

“Or are you used to it now?” my mom says as she asks me whether or not I want to sit at the dinner table even though I cannot eat.

I laugh a nervous laugh and respond, “I’m as used to it as possible.”

When you cannot eat it is hard. Food is all around us. But Thanksgiving is pretty much a day that revolves around food. So you could say it is a “tubie’s” (someone who has a feeding tube and may or may not be able to eat) least favorite holiday. But there are a few things you can do to make it easier.

1. Be surrounded by your loved ones. Often for Thanksgiving we are with family. So take advantage of that! Talk, catch up, and enjoy each other’s company.

2. If tolerated, bring your safe “foods.” Bring the mints, lollipops, hard candies, gum, whatever works for you!

3. Give yourself something to look forward to — whether it’s buying a song off iTunes, buying something online, reading a favorite book, watching a favorite movie, or anything that you can do. It can be a simple thing and does not have to be as long, as you have something to look forward to on this difficult day.

4. Talk to others who understand! There are amazing online communities full of people who are facing similar challenges. Find a friend and vent if needed. Understand you are not alone.

5. If all else fails, it will be over in 24 hours. Just got to get through the day — I know you can! It’s hard, and unfair but you can do this and we are all rooting for you!

We want to hear your story. Become a Mighty contributor here.

Lead photo by Thinkstock Images