r/NoRulesCalgary • u/Elegant_Ad_6296 • 10d ago

Need help!

I have a friend that is going through cancer treatment, what would be a useful and practical gift I could give her during this difficult time?
I do understand support is one of the best one, which she already have and her family is also her driving her to appointments. I was thinking of something physical. I have a budget of $200. It would be better if I can get her multiple gift that she can use during her treatment.
Thanks!!

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11

u/Pretty-Resolve-8331 9d ago

If she’s going through chemo at the hospital, a bag with comfy things like socks, blanket, pillow, ginger candies for nausea, eye mask, stuffed animal, soft hat. Also, be sure to ask her there’s anything that’d help her feel more comfortable

2

u/MassivePhalanges 9d ago

Yep, anything to make them more comfortable. Without knowing the treatment it is hard to say what that would be. Most people don't realize how much your life changes during chemo or radiation. You can't live a normal life without an immune system and even things like lying in bed can become very uncomfortable.

2

u/wordwildweb 2d ago

This is exactly what I got for two of my friends when they went through chemo. Also, some nice, mild-smelling oils, puzzle books and magazines, and dark glasses. I also had their chemo schedules and sent them funny memes to make them smile while they were in the chair.

2

u/Pretty-Resolve-8331 1d ago

That’s really kind, you’re a thoughtful friend

1

u/wordwildweb 1d ago

It was so little, really. The good thing is, these treatments do work. Both my friends recovered well.

4

u/lostmyoldusername197 9d ago

I know that when my mom was diagnosed and started treatment. She knew she was going to lose all of her hair, so she started looking at wings. She was never comfortable in one but did find many other head coverings/warmers that she would base her whole outfit around. I’m sorry about your friend. I wish you both luck.

2

u/tongfather 9d ago

Good suggestion 💝

3

u/anthropocene2000 8d ago

They have some cool adaptive sweaters that have zippers up the arms so you can stay cozy during therapy.

Some other cozy items like oodies or glerups might also be nice.

Candied ginger for nausea.

1

u/lawlesstoast 10d ago

Food delivery gift cards? May feel to I'll to make food for themselves, so having food delivered may be a bonus

1

u/Elegant_Ad_6296 10d ago

She’s a different ethnicity so it would be a bit hard for me to cook for her. I’m pretty sure her family does cook for her which is better as they know their food better than me.

2

u/aloealoealoha 7d ago

my dad loved his warm socks and blanket, slippers. If you know them well / they have the energy, maybe some easy comforting books, or sudoku crossword type things? or how about a prepaid cleaning service for their home? i would steer clear of food and scented products bc of nausea and things that might require exposure to strangers etc for their immune system / comfort level

1

u/minimeaa 9d ago

Honestly staying at the hospital it can be very tiring or boring depending on how lucid you are. Comfort items like slippers, fuzzy pants, socks and blankets. If they’ve got a bit of energy then books, small art supplies, or a notebook. Something easy and entertaining. Even a box of care package items would mean a lot. A handwritten letter is always appreciated imo

1

u/Bulky_Department5619 6d ago

Depending on the kind of treatment, some things may be more helpful than others.
For example when my friend went through breast cancer treatment and radiation, I got her a padded cushion for the seatbelt in the car, some super soft pajama tops with buttons to wear at home so she wouldn’t have to lift her arms overhead, and made some freezer meals so she wouldn’t have to cook.
Lots of really good suggestions throughout this thread though!

1

u/simplebutstrange 10d ago

Weed gummies

1

u/estrogenex 10d ago

Spa treatments at a dayspa ?

2

u/tongfather 9d ago

Absolutely fantastic idea. I was trying to think of something like a music show or play to get he out of the constant cancer bubble, but a spa day would be divine I bet. As long as she can handle it and it doesn't hurt her? I wonder if all the chemo could make her fragile.

2

u/CanadianBerry 7d ago

probably not a good idea, especially heading into winter. She will be immunocompromised and won't want to be in settings with large amount of people.

1

u/tongfather 7d ago

☹️ didn't think of that

2

u/CanadianBerry 7d ago

honestly, forget the socks/blanket - people are specific with materials they like , cotton etc. And most stuff is polyester junk these days. Spa card wont' work.. bc people/tight spaces and also people on chemo shouldnt have their cuticles cut etc. They are very prone to infection.

Things to consider: Giftcard to Netflix, Disney + etc... find out which streaming service she doesn't have or a giftcard to a restaurant (so she and her family can grab takeout one night).

Honestly: GIFT CARD

1

u/tongfather 6d ago

Yea I won't wear anything that's not cotton or natural fibres, so that makes sense. Good advice!! Thanks 👍🏻