Skip to main content

A Practical, Uncensored Conversation About Breast Cancer


Ways to Support Someone With Cancer

A diagnosis of cancer can be overwhelming. A cancer patient can face a wide range of challenges, both physically and emotionally. Offering support during this difficult time can make a significant difference. From simple acts of kindness to more substantial assistance, there are countless ways to help a loved one navigate this journey. 

Thoughtful and Comforting Gifts

Soft blankets and throws: A cozy blanket can offer warmth and comfort during treatment.

Comfortable pillows: These can alleviate pain and discomfort during rest.

A spa day or massage: A relaxing spa day can help reduce stress and promote healing.

A cozy robe or loungewear: Comfortable clothing can be a welcome change during treatment.

A soothing bath set: Lavender-scented bath salts or bubble bath can create a relaxing atmosphere.

A journal or notebook: Writing can be a therapeutic way to express emotions.

A book or audiobook: A good book can provide a distraction and escape.

A subscription box: A monthly subscription box can offer a variety of surprises and treats.

Craft kits: Something to focus on other than cancer.

A gift certificate to a favorite store or restaurant: This can allow them to choose something they want.

Smoothie ingredients: These are a great way to sneak in nutrition and supplements.

Practical and Helpful Gifts

Medical Organizer: There is so much information and this can encourage organization.

A meal delivery service: This can help alleviate the burden of cooking during treatment.

A cleaning service: This can take care of household chores and reduce stress.

A grocery delivery: This can save time and energy.

Child care: This allows a break and rest. It can be in the patient’s home, or a playdate

Transportation: Offer to drive to appointments.   

A reusable water bottle: Staying hydrated is important during treatment.

A portable charger: This can be helpful for keeping devices charged while on the go.

A cooling scarf or hat: These can help manage hot flashes during treatment.

A wig or hair accessories: These can help boost self-esteem during hair loss.

A comfortable sleep mask: This can help improve sleep quality.

A reusable tote bag: This can be handy for carrying essential items.

A gift card to a local salon or stylist: This can help with hair care and styling.

A snack basket: A basket of fast, easy snacks is very helpful.

A care package basket: Full of practical items a cancer patient needs. Great for groups.

Prepared meals for the freezer or fridge: Provide a nourishing meal for the family.

School lunch fixings for children: Take away the stress of having to shop for and prepare nutritious school lunches.

Gas cards: It is amazing how many drives there are to the cancer facility.

Movie/Play/Sports tickets: Anything to distract for a couple hours.

Offer to run errands: Ease the chore of multiple stops for necessities.

Offer to attend appointments: Another set of ears can be invaluable.

Proved pet care: Four legged friends sometimes need looking after.

Help with information: Research treatment options or support groups.

Offer a distraction: Suggest activities like watching movies, playing games, or going for walks.

Finances: Assistance with bills, insurance, or managing financial paperwork.

 

Inspirational and Encouraging Gifts

A positive affirmation card deck: These can provide daily inspiration and motivation.

A motivational quote greeting card: This can be a source of encouragement and hope.

A personalized piece of jewelry: This can be a symbol of strength and resilience.

A cancer survivor story book or memoir: This can offer comfort and hope.

A subscription to a meditation or mindfulness app: This can help reduce stress and anxiety.

A yoga mat or meditation cushion: These can be helpful for practicing relaxation techniques.

A plant or flowers: These can brighten up a room and bring a sense of joy. (Caution: overly scented flowers can be nausea-inducing so think of that when you send flowers.)

A handmade gift: A gift made with love and care can be especially meaningful.

A heartfelt letter or card expressing your support and love: Sometimes, the simplest gifts are the most meaningful. 

Sometimes the thing that is needed the most is silence. Cancer is all-consuming in both body and mind. There is so much noise with doctor appointments and phone calls and scan results that sometimes what a person with cancer needs is just time alone to absorb. 

Remember, the best gift you can give is your love, support, and understanding.





Popular Posts

Ways to Ask For Support

"Surround yourself with people who support you. Find champions." Sarah Gavron When faced with a cancer diagnosis, people often ask, "How can I help?"   Finding the right response quickly can be challenging, so here are some suggestions to help you get started: Transportation: Driving to appointments, treatments or errands Appointments: Have moral support and have them take notes Household chores: Clean, cook, laundry, lawn care Meals: Have meals prepared or delivered, or accept a a meal-sharing service. Childcare or pet care: Get a break from responsibilities. Errands: Have groceries, prescriptions, or other necessities picked up or ordered Help with information: Research treatment options or support groups. Offer a distraction: Other people can suggest activities like watching movies, playing games, or going for walks. Finances: Assistance with bills, insurance, or financial paperwork. A listening ear: Request a non-judgmental space to share thoughts and feelings....

After Cancer

"When you see broken beyond repair, I see healing beyond belief." - Matthew West,  All Things New After Cancer is a different animal than During Cancer. During Cancer is a whirlwind of Everything. It is a can't-catch-your-breath feeling. Then suddenly, one day, they unhook you or turn off a machine or close a file and say, "Okay. You're done." Your first instinct is HELL YEAH, I'M DONE and you ride that wave until about the time you drive out of the parking lot. The world is suddenly wide open. And you have no idea where to go. Click on the following images to articles on how to navigate this whole after-cancer business.

Lumpectomy Low Down

  "Because nobody goes through life without a scar." - Carol Burnett Statistics show that there is minimal survival/recurrence differences between lumpectomy and mastectomy. One big fact that doesn’t seem to be public knowledge – cancer can come back if you have your breast (or breasts) completely removed.  A mastectomy does not guarantee cancer will not return. Lumpectomy, or partial mastectomy, involves only taking out the tumor and some surrounding tissue. I had a lumpectomy so I can speak with first-hand knowledge of that, while I have information that I have gathered from women with a mastectomy.  There are pros and cons to both. Lumpectomy Pro Save sensation to nipple and breast Natural feeling Shorter surgery Shorter recovery time Lumpectomy Con Breast could be a different size than its mate Radiation is often required Mammograms are still required There is “worry” about recurrence Occasionally I have heard of women who had both breasts removed (cancer was located ...