what to get people who are going through cancer treatment

Having something positive to look forward to is a great motivator for cancer patients to get through treatment. You can plan something to anticipate, or keep them reminded of a goal they have.

Full Answer

What is the best gift for someone with cancer?

What is a good gift for someone who just finished chemo?

• Friend and Family Gift Basket. The Friends and Family Cancer Support Gift Basket is ideal for someone who just learned that they have cancer. …
• Gift Sets. Soothing Chemotherapy Gift Set. …
• I Have Chemo Brain! What’s Your Excuse? …
• Cancer Hats and Head Coverings. …
• Humor for Treatment.

What to do if you get diagnosed with cancer?

Dunn diagnosed the growth ... It’s a really bad spot to do surgery.” Immediately, Kolb — a registered nurse — began to research her options. First, she discovered Dr. Demian Dressler, author of “The Dog Cancer Survival Guide: Full Spectrum ...

How to be a good friend to someone with cancer?

People who ... Although toxic friends and friendships can be unhealthy, they can also teach us invaluable lessons about life and ourselves and eventually make us better versions of who we are. After a toxic friend has left your life for good, the chances ...

How to write an encouraging letter to someone with cancer?

Positive Messages for Someone With Cancer

• Each day brings new healing.
• Cancer can't take away your hope.
• Bravery and courage are two of your greatest assets. ...
• Your strength is amazing. ...
• You are one of the strongest people I know. ...
• You and I have been through so much together. ...
• This world is better with you in it, and you’re going to stay in it for a very long time.
• Let's plan a trip. ...

More items...

What motivates cancer patients to get through treatment?

What does a cancer patient not need?

How to keep your loved one entertained in a hospital?

How to surprise someone with something?

What to do when you are not visiting in person?

What takes someone's mind off of things better than a party?

Can you give money to a cancer patient?

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What do cancer patients want as gifts?

Consider gifts that provide comfort, like blankets and soft robes. Gifts that provide stress relief, like an aromatherapy pillow, will also be appreciated. Consider books and movies to provide entertainment when your friend is feeling fatigued. Warm hats and scarves are also good choices if the weather is cold.

What do you get someone who is going through chemotherapy?

Gifts to bring comfort A well-chosen gift of soft sweatpants or cozy pair of socks can help make people undergoing chemotherapy feel more comfortable during their treatment. A person should consider natural, breathable fabrics that are soft and warming, as chemotherapy can make some individuals more sensitive to cold.

What is a good care package for someone with cancer?

To get started, Ulreich recommends filling your cancer care package with some of these items:Chapstick. Lips can become dry during radiation and chemotherapy. ... Coloring books and travel games. ... Framed photos. ... Fuzzy socks or slippers. ... Hand sanitizer. ... Hard candy or gum. ... Hat or salon gift certificate. ... Hobbies.More items...•

What do you put in a gift basket for chemo patients?

Cancer Care Package IdeasWarm blankets and socks. Clinics and hospitals — where chemotherapy is administered — are often chilly, so blankets and warm socks can make your loved one more comfortable. ... Moisturizers and lip balm. ... Headwear and/or salon gift cards. ... Snacks and water. ... Entertainment. ... Inspiration.

What is a chemo port pillow?

A chemo port pillow is a small, soft pillow that people attach to a seat belt to protect their chemo port. These are also called port-a-cath pillows or port seat belt protectors. This “port softie” is intended to relieve any pressure or rubbing from the seat belt.

Can you send flowers to chemo patients?

Don't buy flowers. Plants and flowers harbor fungal spores that place patients — especially transplant and cellular therapy patients — at higher risk for infection. Additionally, flowers may trigger emotional distress when the plant wilts and dies.

How do you cheer up a cancer patient?

What you can do: VisitsAlways call before you visit. ... Schedule a visit that allows you to give physical and emotional support for the caregiver, too. ... Make short, regular visits rather than long, infrequent ones. ... Begin and end the visit with a touch, a hug, or a handshake.Be understanding if you are asked .More items...•

What do cancer patients need for comfort?

Adult coloring books, journals, a bible or religious or inspirational books. These can all be found online or in a hospital gift shop. A nice scarf, hat or “chemo beanie.” Many chemotherapy patients look for ways to dress their scalps after losing their hair during treatment.

What is a chemo box?

A woman who has gone through 35 rounds of chemo for colon cancer is helping other cancer patients by giving them care packages with products that can make their treatments more bearable. Mark Strassmann shares more. Feb 3, 2022.

What do you put in a care package?

Care package ideas:Stress ball or fidget spinner.Coffee (or a gift card to a coffee shop)Water bottle.Healthy snacks like granola bars, dried fruit, mixed nuts or trail mix.Study supplies like notecards, highlighters, colored pens and sticky notes.Candy and chocolate.Chewing gum.Stress relief candle.More items...•

Is ginger Candy good for chemo patients?

Results from two studies of adults who took ginger for nausea showed that various doses of ginger before starting chemotherapy treatments helped to reduce the severity of nausea. In these studies, participants began taking ginger orally three days prior to starting chemotherapy.

What do you send someone going through a hard time?

How Can I Help? 23 Ways to Support Someone Going Through a Tough TimeChicken soup by mail. Forget Edible Arrangements. ... Cards and notes. There is never a bad time to send a card or thoughtful letter. ... Random jokes. ... Self care gifts. ... Group care packages. ... Gifts that solve a problem. ... Fun socks. ... Candles.More items...•

20+ Best Gift Ideas for Cancer Patients | Cake Blog

1. Massage at home. Going through cancer treatments can be physically and emotionally taxing. Send a masseuse for some feel-good self-care so they don’t have to travel or even get dressed.

Can you pause chemo?

Unfortunately, life doesn’t get put on pause when you go through chemo, and patients still have to go through basic, everyday things like cooking dinner. As you can imagine, that can be exhausting, which is why a subscription to a food delivery service can be incredibly helpful.

Can you offer to come over to a friend?

Sure, you can offer to come over whenever they want, but Sheila Ferrall, senior director of nursing practice, education and clinical effectiveness at Moffitt Cancer Center, tells SELF that, in her experience, most people are “very reluctant” to actually take friends up on those offers.

Can you download iTunes for chemo?

An iTunes gift card so they can download freely. Chemo sessions can be long and, while there’s often a TV available, “that only goes so far,” Dr. Saria says. He recommends getting a patient an iTunes gift card so they can pick out music, podcasts, or downloadable books to help them pass the time.

Is chemo exhausting?

Cancer can be terrifying, exhausting, and isolating—and so can chemotherapy. So, if you have a loved one who is going through chemo, it’s understandable that you’d want to do everything you can to help them through the process. While simply being there is crucial, you may be searching for other ways to help, from running their errands ...

Does Twitter provide medical advice?

Twitter. SELF does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Any information published on this website or by this brand is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. Topics breast cancer cancer.

Can you use an electric blanket for cold cap therapy?

An electric blanket—especially if they're doing cold cap therapy. "Towards the end of my treatment, when the cold cap feels even colder because you inevitably have less hair, electric blankets are invaluable," Montego says, noting that she borrowed a few during her treatment.

Can chemo cause a person to smell?

The unscented part is key. Chemotherapy can throw a person’s sense of scent out of whack, and even people who normally love fragrances can be repulsed by strong scents, she says. It can also make your skin super dry and sensitive, so fragrance may be irritating.

What to do when someone is in cancer treatment?

Cook, clean, mow the lawn, wash the laundry and/or dishes, make sure the bills get paid, get the kids dressed for school, walk the dog and do all of the things that the person in cancer treatment would normally do to keep life going for the rest of the family. Bring a cup of tea or coffee and stop by for a visit.

How to help a cancer patient after treatment?

Drive the patient to appointments. And when treatment is over, drive them to checkups and scans. They may not show it, but cancer patients often have a lot of anxiety about these appointments even years after treatment. A friendly face and someone to talk to can make a big difference.

How to help a cancer patient who doesn't want to be treated differently?

Talk to your friend or loved one like you did before. Tell jokes, talk about what’s going on in the neighborhood or at your kids’ school, favorite TV shows, etc. This can briefly help take patients’ minds off of cancer.

How to help a cancer patient who doesn't feel like talking?

Instead, listen to the patient’s concerns, acknowledge that cancer sucks and offer a shoulder to cry on. And if the patient doesn’t feel like talking, sit there with them quietly. There is a lot of power in simply being present.

How to stop cancer patients from being tired?

Bring a cup of tea or coffee and stop by for a visit. Just keep in mind that cancer patients often struggle with fatigue, so don’t stay too long – unless they ask you to stay longer.

How to help a child with cancer?

Take care of their children. Take them to school or sports practice, help with homework, or have them over for a slu mber party or playdate . This can help take their minds off of cancer, and ease their parents’ stress.

Why do we take notes in the hospital?

Taking notes can ensure they have the information they need later.

How long did it take for a chemo to remove the appendix?

Six months of treatment followed, including nine weeks of chemo and major debulking (tumor-removal) surgery that involved a total hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy (removing both ovaries and fallopian tubes). This was in addition to the removal of my appendix because the cancer had spread there, and then nine more weeks of chemo.

Can you put underwear away with cancer?

If the person with cancer who you're shopping for is interested in replacing their conventional cleaning products with alternative ones, it can be helpful to start them off with a few household staples. Putting away their dirty underwear is optional.

Can you give a cancer patient a professional cleaning?

If you want to give a person with cancer professional home cleanings, I’d recommend requesting that whatever cleaning company you choose uses products that minimize your loved one's exposure to potentially harmful ingredients and also keep in mind that harsh cleaning products with strong odors could be irritating to someone undergoing chemo.

Does Self provide medical advice?

SELF does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Any information published on this website or by this brand is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. Topics gift guides cancer Shopping ovarian cancer.

How to make life after cancer treatment easier?

However, eating regularly and maintaining a healthy diet is important when recovering from cancer treatment. Cook and freeze several meals for when your loved one returns home. That might be one of the best ways to make life after treatment a little bit easier for them.

What to do when someone is reading your blog?

walk their dog. take their child or children to school or to the park. take them out for coffee or lunch on a day of their choosing. Whatever you decide to offer, remember that it is not the gift alone that will make them happy. Because you are reading this blog, it means that you care about the person.

Why do people with cancer need a V-shaped pillow?

If the person has swollen arms or legs, for example because of lymphoedema, extra pillows can be useful to support the affected limb.

Can you use cotton pillows for cancer patients?

If you do buy pillows for someone with cancer, make sure that the pillow cover is made from cotton. This is because cotton is less likely to irritate sore skin caused by treatments such as radiotherapy.

What to do if you have cancer and need to move out of your home?

Families who need to move out of their homes after a cancer diagnosis should talk with their county department of social services to find out if they can get into low-cost or government-supported housing programs. In some states this may be listed under the health department or welfare department.

How to keep credit in your home after cancer treatment?

To keep a good credit rating and stay in your home, talk with your creditor or landlord about your situation and try to make special arrangements. Family, friends, or church members may be able to give you short-term help if they’re told about the problem. Talk about your situation with the cancer treatment team social worker who may know of special resources.

What is TANF grant?

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) is a grant program for people with low incomes. It provides monthly cash to help pay for food, clothing, housing, utilities, transportation, phone, medical supplies not covered by Medicaid, and other basic needs . (TANF also helps states provide training and jobs for the people in welfare programs.) A social worker can tell you about your state’s plan, or contact your local health or social services department. You can visit them online at https://www.hhs.gov/answers/programs-for-families-and-children/what-is-tanf/index.htm.

What is the road to recovery program?

The American Cancer Society Road To Recovery® program is available in some areas. Trained volunteers drive patients and families to hospitals and clinics for treatment. Contact your local American Cancer Society office for more information on the type of transportation program available in your area.

Can you get paid for time spent caring for a patient?

A few people are able to get paid for time spent caregiving. Some states have Cash and Counseling Programs that can directly pay some caregivers. You can find out if your state has a program by contacting your local Medicaid office, social services, or health department.

Does Leukemia and Lymphoma Society provide gas?

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, through its Patient Aid program, can help some families with the cost of gas and parking for outpatient treatment. This aid is only for those with blood cancers (leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma). There’s a limit on the amount of financial help to each patient and family for each year. Check with your team social worker about this program or contact the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society at 1-800-955-4572 or look on www.lls.org.

Do treatment centers have short term housing?

Many treatment centers also have other short-term housing possibilities or discount arrangements with nearby motels and hotels. The clinic social worker or oncology nurse may have ideas for low-cost housing during hospital or clinic treatment.

When will medical supplies be available for cancer patients?

on April 12, 2020. When going through cancer treatment, there are medical supplies available that make life a little easier. In these top picks, we look at the most-needed things during cancer treatment. You may find them useful in your own care or as a caregiver of patients with cancer . 1.

Can radiation patients swallow pills?

This is great for one that has difficulty swallowing or for patients who take many pills at the same and who are having difficulty swallowing them together or consecutively. It is also great for radiation patients who have dry mouth, which can make it difficult to swallow pills.

Does chemotherapy cause nausea?

Diarrhea and nausea are both side effects of chemotherapy. 2  Many times there is such an urgency that the patient may not make it to the restroom. Having a bedside commode makes it much easier.

Does Verywell Health use peer reviewed sources?

Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

What is cancer in the medical field?

Cancer is an illness that not only creates complications for one person, but changes the lives of many over the course of the diagnosis, disease, and treatment. If someone you know is going through this, know that your support is valued.

Do cancer patients feel strong?

Cancer patients may not feel strong, and may, in fact, feel the exact opposite. Even if that’s true, it’s important to let them know how strong they truly are. You can also send a gift of a cozy blanket or slippers to provide some comfort as they continue their fight.

Is cancer hard to handle?

Cancer is one of the most challenging illnesses for anyone and their loved ones to handle. If you are supporting someone recently diagnosed, it can be hard to know what to say.

Well wishes for friends fighting cancer

1. This must be a really tough time for you, but I wanted to let you know that I’m so impressed by your courage and endurance.

Get-well messages for chemo treatment

38. Each day is one day closer to being done with your chemotherapy! I’m counting down right along with you.

Encouraging messages for terminal patients

48. I am so sorry you haven’t been feeling as good lately. I just wanted you to know how much I love you and that I am here for you.

Religious get-well messages for cancer patients

61. Every day, I pray that God watches over you and continues to give you the strength to fight this battle. I can’t imagine how exhausted you are from struggling with all of this, and I am so inspired by your bravery.

Get-well wishes for kids fighting cancer

72, So many people are cheering you on! You’re smart, brave, and very, very loved. Hang in there!

Humorous get-well wishes for cancer patients

79. Well, there is one positive thing to your diagnosis: Now you can play the cancer card!

Get-well messages for a cancer relapse

92. It must be so exhausting to go through this process again. Please know that I am here to support you in any way. How about I drop off some groceries for you and the family this weekend?

What motivates cancer patients to get through treatment?

Having something positive to look forward to is a great motivator for cancer patients to get through treatment. You can plan something to anticipate, or keep them reminded of a goal they have.

What does a cancer patient not need?

One thing a cancer patient does not need any more of? Stress. Offering to help out with tasks like rides to treatments, house cleaning, feeding pets or driving kids to school/sports will lift a huge weight off your loved one’s shoulders. The less they focus on day-to-day chores, the more they can focus on getting better.

How to keep your loved one entertained in a hospital?

Hospitals aren’t the most exciting setting, and boredom can set in quickly. Keep your loved one entertained by bringing over some of your favorite books. You could bring anything from your favorite mystery novel to a prayer book – the main focus should be on sharing something you love (and think they’ll love, too.)

How to surprise someone with something?

Surprising your loved one with something personal and thoughtful is sure to put a smile on their face. Think about what activities or events they really love, and consider doing something special related to those things.

What to do when you are not visiting in person?

And when you’re not visiting in person, pick up the phone and give your loved one a call. Hearing the voices of people they care about can be an incredible source of comfort and entertainment.

What takes someone's mind off of things better than a party?

What takes someone’s mind off of things better than a party? When a loved one has cancer, it can feel difficult to get in the party mood, but it’s important to stay positive and celebrate any victories, big or small. Whether it be a birthday bash or recognizing a cancerversary (a significant milestone in one’s cancer journey), your loved one shouldn’t have to miss out because of their illness.

Can you give money to a cancer patient?

However, offering financial support can be one of the most thoughtful (and needed) gifts you can give to a cancer patient . Many patients have to limit or give up working altogether due to their condition, and on top of that, treatment is expensive .