I want to visit a close friend of mine, who's taking care of her mother who's battling cancer and going through massive chemotherapy side effects. What would be a good gift to bring the mother?
2007-10-29 10:33:28 · 23 answers · asked by Randy L 3 in Health ➔ Diseases & Conditions ➔ Cancer
Something to read (nothing too deep, reading should be about escapism, not reading more about cancer), some nice pampering stuff like body lotion or a nice nail varnish, flowers or chocolates.
Also pick something up for your friend, I've been in your friend's position, nobody brought me a gift and I could've done with a little something to remind me that someone was thinking of me too :o) Doesn't matter what it is, could be a single bar of chocolate, it's the thought that counts x
2007-10-29 11:10:24 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
If her mother has a sense of humor make up a fun little basket of things she can use -- something that will bring a smile to her face. Most things you can get at a $1 store. Things like little packages of tissue, something for an upset tummy, some skin lotion, a pretty hair ribbon or hair decoration for when her hair grows back; use your imagination. She will love looking thru the basket again and again. Also some flowers would be nice. In addition acknowledge her daughter by giving to her some flowers too. The caregiver has a really tought job 24/7. God Bless
2007-10-29 10:45:55 · answer #2 · answered by Diane B 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
A kind thought, and you have been given some good ideas here. From experience I warn you though, don't give her anything like body lotion, bath stuff, cream etc unless it's unscented.
Even if a scented product has always been your favourite, using it during chemo can result in 'association sickness' after chemo is over. Just a whiff of something you used can make you nauseous .
I was warned about this and was careful to use unscented products, but didn't think to replace my laundry products with unscented at first. Well over three years later the smell of fabric conditioner makes me nauseous, even if I'm walking down the street and pass a garden where there's washing hanging out the smell gets to me. A friend who used to love a particular Body Shop product is now made nauseous by it because she used it during chemo.
2007-10-29 20:18:58 · answer #3 · answered by lo_mcg 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Is there something that she really loves? Does she have any hobbies? My husband has pelicans as his symbol of hope and friends have brought him pictures, stories, figurines, stuffed animals, etc. They always make him smile.
What about some peaceful meditative music. That is something else that my husband enjoys. When he has been really sick or in discomfort, the music has helped him control the pain and anxiety. This may also help your friend. Target has a large selection..usually at the end of an aisle. You can listen to parts of the CD's.
Another thing that might be useful is a soft blanket throw - my husband is always cold and he appreciates soft blankets when he is chilling.
Most of all, bring her hope and prayers...as well as for your friend. Being a caretaker is very hard. Bring your friend lunch or something special too.
Prayers, hugs and hope.
2007-10-29 16:46:06 · answer #4 · answered by dddanse 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I cared for my mom and it was a huge help to have someone just come to visit, bring a meal or give me a break so I could have some me time. Take mom to one of her treatment sessions, run an errand or two, give mom some comfy slippers or gown or some of her favorite music, something relaxing. What does she need? Ask and you will get your answer as to what to get. Support, kindness, friendship, a listening ear, strength when there is only weakness left, humour and compassion.
2007-10-29 10:45:45 · answer #5 · answered by inkgddss 5 · 2⤊ 0⤋
make your own coupons that have chores you'd be willing to do for them like the dishes, cook a dinner, pick up groceries, wash and fold laundry. one of the worst things about chemo and radiation is how drained it leaves you feeling and how depressed you can get. most people just don't have the energy or will to get everything done that needs doing. and i'm sure your friend is worn out too and could use the hand around the place. it doesn't have to cost you a penny and it's worth more than money can buy just to show support.
2007-10-29 10:39:46 · answer #6 · answered by bryce k 4 · 2⤊ 0⤋
I am a cancer survivor myself. You know whenever they bring you flowers and a balloon, it doesn't really help but it is nice. I suggest to bring her a basket full of things she enjoys- and things to keep her mind off of cancer. Try Word-search books, her favorite goodies, and fun little kiddie toys like silly putty and a slinky to make her feel happy. Her favorite flower in a nice vase would be a nice addition. Use your imagination. Hope it helps.
2007-10-29 10:40:48 · answer #7 · answered by Alli_G8tr 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
There is a book called "Uplift - Secrets from the survivors of breast cancer". This book focuses on the positive side of life and treatments for people battling and surviving breast cancer. It is a very uplifting book.
2007-10-29 10:45:02 · answer #8 · answered by HerMom 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
i would think to bring her stuff that she can do if she is laying in bed such as crosswords puzzles, movies, sewing, coloring, things that could keep her entertained if she is not feeling well. Or buy her this book its called the Secert its about life and how to get things that you want out of it and how. ask your friend what they think she would like and go from there. OH yea and flowers too.. good luck and may god be with you
2007-10-29 10:39:34 · answer #9 · answered by Melinda G 2 · 2⤊ 0⤋
A handmade card. Be creative. A painting, framed art. A book. Something like that.
2007-10-29 10:40:48 · answer #10 · answered by Burn to Shine 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋