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Appropriate Cards and Gifts

Cancer | Last Active: Aug 3 9:34am | Replies (13)

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@roch

@ldrlaw

Been thinking about your question for a day. My mother had PC and I have had breast cancer. Trying to recall what was most appreciated.

Gift cards like Starbucks, delivery services for meals (like Door Dash), gas gift cards, etc… There are so many additional expenses that occur that medical insurance does not cover.

Maybe a spa gift card for a pedicure or manicure if cousins would enjoy something like that. Even better, if live close go with her.

Stay away from lotion or other products with scents. Many cancer patients become very sensitive to
fragrances. But a lotion that has no fragrances might be appreciated.

Many people offer to help, but often the patient never asks. Instead of telling them to call if need anything, be direct and tell them you're going to bring them a meal, ask what they want and on what day. And then follow up.

I hope you have a nice luncheon and are able to talk about fun times. Do you have some topics to discuss that do not involve PC, memories of when you were kids, etc...

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Replies to "@ldrlaw Been thinking about your question for a day. My mother had PC and I have..."

I really appreciate what you said about rather than saying “Let me know if I can help.” that people just do it. I have a really, really difficult time asking for help. I’ve talked to other people with cancer who say the same. Boy would it be wonderful if family and friends just showed up and said “OK. I’m here to help. Let’s get something you need help with done.”

My sister did something similar that I found SUPER helpful. She would instruct me to go out and get a nice dinner or something else (it was my husband that had cancer) and then to tell her how much it was. She would then PayPal me the money. This worked for me because I did not even have to keep track of a gift card. It was very appreciated.