One helpful thing to think about is what would they like if they didn’t have cancer? But, of course, they still enjoy these things, and sometimes they may not necessarily want anything health related. So, we’ve put together a list of potential gifts to think about when shopping for someone living with cancer. Read on to find out more!
Choose a gift certificate or gift card to their favorite restaurant, store, or spa. They can use it when it’s convenient and schedule it around a treatment schedule.
Your loved one will never miss an episode of their favorite TV show or the release of a new album, and they may enjoy playing addictive games like Angry Birds.
You can choose a theme (like “friendship”) or even transfer photographs on quilting squares. Or ask your friends to each mail you a 1-foot-by-1-foot piece of fabric, like a piece of a t-shirt that might have a special meaning.
Don’t have any sewing skills? No worries. Check out your local craft store for lessons that take a small amount of time and money.
Just think a little bit about the subject matter ahead of time. For instance, you may want to avoid movies that are about cancer or include a lot of death and steer more toward lighthearted comedies.
It’s always nice to get subscriptions to something that you’re interested in, but wouldn’t necessarily buy for yourself.
Travel gift certificates are excellent presents for people with cancer because they allow them to relax, whether in between treatment sessions or after treatment has ended.
You don’t have to pay the full amount of the travel cost. Airlines and cruise ships sell gift certificates in various denominations.
Surgeries and fatigue are often part of cancer treatment and can cause them to spend a lot of time in bed. A laptop allows them to communicate with friends and family efficiently via email and social networking sites.
If your loved one is ambitious, they can even blog about their cancer treatment.
Nothing is more unflattering and uncomfortable than a hospital gown, so why not spoil a loved one with cozy pajamas, a soft robe, and fuzzy slippers?
Robes and pajamas that open in the front work best, so look for things that button up or have elastic-waist pants. Slippers or non-skid socks are also great gift ideas.
All of these items will make your loved one feel more comfortable in the hospital.
Check out your local bookstores for entire sections that are devoted to puzzle books. Consider buying two copies of a book and accompanying your friend to chemotherapy so you can do them together.
Summary
Buying gifts for people can be tricky under the best situations, but it can feel especially hard when someone has cancer. Things that are practical and useful but still fun are always a good choice. It doesn’t have to cost a lot of money to be a fantastic gift—puzzle books are a great example of an inexpensive gift that helps pass the time, distract them, and provides enjoyment that doesn’t have to be medical-related.
A Word From Verywell
When it comes to buying gifts for people with cancer, that adage is true—it’s the thought that counts. Knowing that someone cares enough to think of them is the most important thing. These suggestions are just a bonus.
