A small bag of peppermint candies can be a surprisingly effective remedy for the nausea that often accompanies chemotherapy treatments. Similarly, a quality moisturizing cream can significantly soothe the skin irritation sometimes caused by radiation therapy. These simple items, along with warm socks and insulated water bottles, are often recommended for individuals undergoing cancer treatment. But beyond these basic necessities, what are truly meaningful gifts for someone facing this challenging journey?
To gain deeper insight, we consulted 16 cancer survivors and asked them about the gifts that resonated with them most during their treatment. Their responses highlight the power of thoughtfulness and support in tangible forms. Here are some of their most cherished gifts:
Inspiring Books and Encouraging Words
“Having a visual reminder that people were rooting for me was incredibly motivating,” recalls Dr. Connie Porter, a breast cancer survivor. “There was a day when I felt particularly unwell, lying down and struggling. My eyes fell upon a plaque given to me by some students, displayed on the mantel. It read, ‘Always remember you are braver than you think, stronger than you seem, and loved more than you know.’ Those words resonated deeply and instilled a sense of bravery that empowered me to get up and face the day.”
Nicole Body, a sarcoma survivor, shared a similar experience with the gift of encouragement. “A college roommate sent me a bronze key on a gold chain,” she says. “The key was engraved with the word ‘COURAGE,’ and I wore it constantly. The idea was to keep it until I felt strong enough to pass it on to someone else who needed it. It became a source of strength for me throughout my treatment until I was declared cancer-free. Then, I gifted it to a friend who had recently lost her husband.”
Dr. Julie Hildebrand, a remarkable four-time cancer survivor, found solace in literature. “During my first leukemia treatment, a friend gave me ‘The Book of Joy’ by the Dalai Lama and Desmond Tutu,” she recounts. “Reading about the life challenges and wisdom gained by these two spiritual leaders helped me find joy amidst my own adversity. Even now, I often reflect on my favorite passages. That book fundamentally changed my perspective on daily life.”
These stories underscore the profound impact of gifts that offer emotional and spiritual support. Inspirational books, journals for reflection, or even curated playlists of uplifting music can be incredibly valuable Gifts For People With Cancer, providing comfort and encouragement during challenging times.
Time, Presence, and Logistical Support
Practical assistance can be just as meaningful as emotional gifts. For Linda Thomas, a granular cell carcinoma survivor, the gift of presence was invaluable. “I was so fortunate to have people who could stay with me while I was receiving treatment in Houston, including my daughter,” Linda shares. “We created a schedule and had a rotation of visitors staying in my temporary apartment throughout the summer. Being far from home, having company was crucial. Otherwise, I would have been completely alone in an unfamiliar city while undergoing cancer treatment.”
Dorcas Powell, an inflammatory breast cancer survivor, experienced extraordinary logistical support from her son. “When I told my son about my inflammatory breast cancer diagnosis, he immediately quit his job, gave up his apartment, and left his fiancée at home to be with me,” Dorcas explains. “He knew I was terrified of driving in a large city but was determined to go to MD Anderson. Thanks to him, I never missed a single appointment. Even during a major Houston flood, he found a way to safely get me to chemotherapy and back home.”
These stories highlight that sometimes the most impactful gifts for people with cancer are not material possessions, but rather the gift of time, presence, and practical help. Offering to drive someone to appointments, help with childcare, run errands, or simply spend time with them can alleviate stress and provide much-needed support.
The Convenience of Prepared Meals
Nutritious meals are essential during cancer treatment, but fatigue and side effects can make cooking challenging. Angela Hernandez, an ovarian cancer survivor, benefited greatly from meal delivery. “My in-laws lived out of state but wanted to support us,” Angela recounts. “They arranged for a local service to deliver healthy meals twice a week. Neither my husband nor I had the energy to cook. Having those meals taken care of allowed us to truly relax at the end of each day. It’s amazing how much stress was relieved just by having one meal prepared.”
Reneata Benjamin, a pancreatic cancer survivor, was touched by the support of her colleagues. “The teachers and staff at my elementary school prepared dinner for my family and me for over a month,” Reneata marvels. “The school counselor coordinated everything seamlessly. It was such a blessing. My mind was willing to cook, but my body just wasn’t able. Thanks to my colleagues, I didn’t have to worry about providing meals for my family during my cancer treatment.”
Gifts of prepared meals, whether home-cooked or from a meal delivery service, are incredibly practical and thoughtful gifts for cancer patients. They ease the burden of daily tasks and ensure that patients and their families have access to nutritious food during a demanding period.
Handmade Crafts and Heartfelt Greetings
Personalized, handmade gifts often carry significant emotional weight. Herman Connor, a kidney cancer survivor, cherished a handmade card from his niece. “One of my nieces made me a Christmas card during her first year of college,” Herman shares. “She thanked me for my support and encouragement. It meant so much because she took the time to make it personally. For Valentine’s Day, another niece gave me a refrigerator magnet with her handprint and stickers. She was only four, and it was a school project, but it was pretty cool that she wanted to give it to me.”
Steven Champagne, a multiple myeloma survivor, found strength in handwritten inspirational cards from a friend. “When one of my oldest friends learned about my cancer, she made me some inspirational cards,” Steven says. “She handwrote uplifting scriptures in beautiful calligraphy and mailed them to me. I relied heavily on my faith to get me through treatment, and those cards were a powerful reminder of that.”
Handmade gifts, such as cards, knitted items, or artwork, convey a personal touch and demonstrate care and effort. These gifts can be particularly meaningful for people with cancer, offering a tangible reminder of love and support from their friends and family.
Soft Blankets and Comfortable Head Gear
Comfort items are always appreciated, especially during chemotherapy and radiation treatments. Mark Teague, a throat cancer survivor, treasured a custom-made blanket. “The best gift I received was a custom-made blanket with my family’s names on it,” Mark recalls. “It kept me warm during chemo, as the infusion rooms could be very cold. Seeing all those names made me feel like my family was right there with me, even when they were far away. I still use that blanket today.”
Cynthia Sanchez, a thymoma survivor, echoed the importance of comfort. “Comfort was paramount,” Cynthia agrees. “A gentle back rub or the softness of a blanket meant everything. An administrator gave me a plush sherpa throw with poinsettias. It brought me immense comfort during chemo sessions. I still have it and sometimes have playful争奪 with my sons over who gets to use it!”
For Carrington Marzett, a childhood leukemia survivor, comfortable headwear was a welcome gift. “As a cancer patient, you can never have too many cute and comfy clothes,” Carrington adds. “I loved receiving new hats and bandanas after losing my hair. I remember one bumble bee bandana that I absolutely adored. At 15, it wasn’t necessarily the gift I wanted, but it was definitely something I used constantly.”
Soft blankets, comfortable clothing, hats, and scarves are all excellent gift choices for people with cancer. These items provide physical comfort and can help patients feel more at ease during treatment and recovery.
The Totally Unexpected Gifts
Sometimes, the most memorable gifts are those that are completely unexpected and bring a sense of joy and normalcy. Gretchen Lee Herrera, a breast cancer survivor, received a cash gift with a specific purpose. “I was given an envelope with some cash and told specifically NOT to spend it on bills,” Gretchen shares. “It was rodeo season in Houston, so I treated myself to my first pair of real cowboy boots. Wearing them that year, and every year since, has brought me so much joy! I even wore them at MD Anderson’s Boot Walk to End Cancer in 2021. Raising money and giving back while wearing those boots was an incredible feeling!”
Sabrina Dominguez, a medulloblastoma survivor, received a truly unforgettable gift from her favorite band. “I received a video from my absolute favorite band telling me they loved me and wishing me luck on my upcoming brain surgery,” Sabrina recounts. “It was even more special because the band was breaking up, and they recorded it on the last night of their farewell tour. I was in complete disbelief. The fact that my cousin tracked them down and got them to acknowledge me was beyond my wildest dreams.”
Unexpected gifts, whether a fun experience, a personalized message from an admired figure, or something that simply brings joy and a sense of normalcy, can be incredibly uplifting for someone facing cancer. These gifts offer a welcome distraction and create positive memories during a challenging time.
Ultimately, the best gifts for people with cancer are those that come from the heart and demonstrate genuine care and support. Whether practical, emotional, or unexpected, thoughtful gifts can make a significant difference in the lives of those navigating cancer treatment and recovery.
