[10th December 2025]
As we get into the festive season, we’re sharing lived-experience tips from our community to help others manage Pelvic Radiation Disease (PRD) during what can be a challenging time of year.
We’d love to hear any practical ideas you’re happy to share. This might include pacing yourself to manage fatigue, approaches to food and drink choices, or simple adjustments that help make social gatherings more comfortable.
We will be sharing these tips on social media and continuing the conversation about enjoying the festive season in a way that feels right for you during our Chat Together support group on Tuesday 16th December. Our Online Community is also available 24/7, and we encourage everyone to post their own seasonal suggestions for looking after their wellbeing.
If you’d like to submit your festive tips, please complete our Have Your Say form.
Tips from the PRD community
“As far as you feel comfortable (or sensible), try to say ‘yes’ to yourself and those around you when invited to something you would previously have loved to attend or been keen to do – such as a friendly gathering or go for a bracing walk in the country. Of course plan how you would manage your limitations and ‘mishaps’ safely and discreetly, but resist the sometimes overwhelming temptation to play safe and say ‘no’. Many, many times barriers seem to be mental as much as physical, and so often you will be so glad that you overcame your natural but often excessive caution, and taste the precious joys of this wonderful time of year.”
Person living with PRD
“Christmas buzzwords for me are Moderation, Chew Properly, Rest, Relax, Enjoy. Always have the PRDA forums to turn to for any advice or to rant 🙂 “
Person living with PRD
“Don’t be shy about taking a small blanket or similar, to place on a chair as you eat or chat afterwards, it’s much more comfortable that way.”
Person living with PRD
“If you feel fatigued even just thinking of all the things you ‘need to do’ on the run up to Christmas – delegate some things to others and try to pare down your to-do list.”
Person living with PRD
“Discreetly discuss your dietary needs with the host beforehand. You can even suggest bringing a dish or two that you know you can safely eat. It takes the worry out of planning what you can and can’t eat.”
Person living with PRD
“I’m always tempted to graze through indulgent Christmas nibbles, but it wreaks havoc on my digestion. With endless nuts, biscuits, chocolates and a host who insists your plate is piled high, it can be a minefield! I make sure I have a proper breakfast so I’m less tempted to graze on snacks, and when it comes to Christmas dinner I ask for a smaller plate, because politely saying I can’t eat much never seems to do the trick.”
Sarah – living with PRD
“I’ll join in with a cheeky tipple at mealtimes, but I try to avoid alcohol and overly carbonated drinks during the day as they can leave me uncomfortably bloated and gassy. I often bring a pack of fancy soft drinks, along with a bottle of wine for the host and other guests, so I know there’s a safe option for me that still feels like a treat.”
Person living with PRD