Gifts for chemotherapy

Hi, 

I've recently found out someone close has been diagnosed with lung cancer and I would like to gift them things that would help him during/after chemotherapy sessions. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated or if you think it's not a good idea.

Thank you x

  • Hi Plymouth girl 

    During chemo can be very boring ,so depending probably on age and gender something they can read or listen to while having treatment .

    If female maybe a wig or some head squares or scarves, maybe really gentle shower gels or soaps depending on what they use, shower gels and soaps for a Man as well. Maybe a hat for a Man or woman in case of cold weather,.

    Hope I've given you some ideas , hopefully others will increase the list and you find something Ideal.

    Billy

     

  • Hello Plymouthgirl28, 

    That's so thoughtful of you - I am sure your friend or relative will be really touched by your gesture. You might find some inspiration if you have a look at our Cancer Care range. There is even specifically a 'chemotherapy' section on this page or you could also have a look at the 'during treatment and aftercare' category here.

    I hope this helps and that you find the perfect gift to help your friend during his treatment. 

    Best wishes, 

    Lucie, Cancer Chat Moderator

  • Hi Plymouth girl

     

    I've just started chemo. I agree with Billy about boredom and activities. However the best thing that I have been given was some intensive body cream. Everything has dried out after the treatment. Hair, skin and nails. The cream has been a game changer.

     

    Barb

  • Hi Plymouth girl,

     

    I did the same for a friend of mines Mum and I did a hamper of things that I thought would be useful through my own and others around me experience. Most of these bits I ordered online or got through places like B&M so it didn't work out too expensive but she really appreciated it. 

     

    Wide toothed comb - gentler on the hair 

    A travel cup and water bottle to make sure they stay hydrated especially when receiving treatment

    Antibac spray (a travel sized one)

    Sanex 0% shower gel (chemicals can cause bad skin reactions for some on chemo). 

    A note book and pen to help them keep track of symptoms patterns etc, this can be useful as it can help the doctors identify if meds need to change, or tell the person what to expect 3 days after chemo for example.

    Ginger tea, Ginger nut biscuits and Gin Gin sweets to help with nausea

    Vaseline for dry lips

     Ear plugs and eye mask for any hospital stays and treatment naps

    Travel neck pillow

    Sleepy tea

    Body cream (again less chemicals is best, I think the one I got was a Burt's Bees one)

    Cotton gloves....this is a weird one. But my MIL got funny pains in her hands and it was made worse by touching hot or cold things so she used these gloves and they really helped.

     

    Hope this helps XXX