When someone you love is facing a breast cancer diagnosis, showing them you care with a gift can bring great comfort to both of you. But what should you give them? You can ask what they need or want, but we’re one hundred percent behind the element of surprise! With that in mind, we’ve created a list of a few of our favorite gifts. From practical to fun-loving, these gifts are sure to be a hit with your loved one.
TUTU by Bob Carey
Decked out in his trademark pink tutu, Bob Carey’s TUTU softcover book entertains with his striking photography and personal anecdotes from his location shoots. This book is a must-have for anyone whose life has been affected by breast cancer.
The purchase of this book supports breast cancer patients and their families. Net proceeds are donated to The Tutu Project of The Carey Foundation, a registered 501(c)3 non-profit. These funds help others in need of financial support with a mortgage payment, transportation to chemotherapy, a utility bill, childcare, and more.
LympheDiva Tutu Compression Garment
Compression sleeves apply pressure to the arms, hands, or trunks to reduce the symptoms of lymphedema, a common side effect of breast cancer treatments. Unfortunately, most compression sleeves aren’t pretty to look at but these arm sleeves are perfect for the breast cancer patient in your life. Not only are they stylish, but they’re also comfortable to wear all day.
Lymphediva gives back in a big way; 25% of select garments are donated to charities that work with breast cancer patients. We are honored that they chose The Tutu Project as one of their charities and love the design by artist Marianne DuQuette Cuozzo.
A healthcare professional must measure and fit each garment, and the best way to gift these beautiful sleeves is by purchasing a gift certificate.
Lymphediva is an American-owned business proudly manufactured in the US.
A Mastectomy Pillow
Help your loved one find comfort with a mastectomy pillow. These pillows gently cushion the chest area while making sure that the seatbelt comfortably fits.
Going through a mastectomy is incredibly frightening. Anna, a breast cancer survivor, and writer of the CancerChic blog, offers first-hand knowledge and support for those facing a mastectomy. Share her blog post for an additional dose of comfort and support.
Med Port Clothing
Is your loved one receiving chemotherapy through a med-port? There are port-accessibility clothing items that make this more manageable while also being stylish.
Hoodies and shirts for both men and women going through treatment are available.
Radiation Burn Cream
Radiation is no fun and it can cause painful burns on the skin. There are creams that protect, nourish, and even alleviate pain after treatment. Grab your loved one a container for when they need it most.
A Funny T-Shirt
Does your loved one going through treatment have a sense of humor? If they love making others laugh, give them a gift that shows them how much you love them.
This “My Oncologist Does My Hair” t-shirt is sure to get some laughs. It’s comfy but stylish enough for days in or days out.
A Massage
Aches and pains go hand in hand with chemotherapy, and sometimes you just need a good back rub. Treat your special person to a professional massage. For an extra luxurious treat make it 90 minutes! Those aches and pains will melt away.
A Soft and Comfy Blanket
We took a quick poll of patients, asking them what brings them comfort while they’re getting chemotherapy. A large number shared that many cancer patients develop a sensitivity to the cold; there’s no better gift than a cozy blanket.
So, grab them a knitted blanket. The soft fabric won’t irritate their skin, and the thick knitting will keep them warm all day.
A Spa Set
Not sure how to treat your loved one each day? Massages are a fabulous gift but what about a gift with a personal touch? We love the idea of a DIY gift and creating a spa set that they can use at any time is a perfect idea.
Not sure what to include? Here are a few options:
- Mud Mask
- Shower Steamers
- Spa Socks
- And more!
Keep in mind that some cancer patients have sensitive skin, as well as increased sensitivity to smells. Purchasing products that are natural is often the best way to go, so no matter where you shop, choose products with simple ingredients.
Personalized Gift Basket
Every person is unique and has different needs. Sometimes, the greatest gift is a customized basket filled with a person’s favorite things. If your loved one is a book lover, consider a mug and tea collection. Add a light for reading at night, and they’re all set.
If they love sports, how about a sports TV subscription? You can fill a basket with goodies like gameday snacks and maybe even tickets to a game.
The possibilities are truly endless when it comes to a customized gift basket.
A Home Cooked Meal
The constant running back and forth to doctor appointments or treatments can make it difficult for a cancer patients to eat well, especially if they’re cooking for themselves. Add the side effects of chemotherapy, and the thought of preparing a meal can be overwhelming.
Ensure your loved one is nourished and well-fed by giving them a home-cooked meal filled with wholesome ingredients and love. Easy to reheat foods are essential, allowing them to get food on the table in 15 minutes or less.
Not much of a cook? Consider gift certificates to their favorite restaurants, especially those that deliver.
A Listening Ear
Sometimes, the most thoughtful gift isn’t a physical item at all. Sometimes, it’s just offering quiet support and a listening ear.
Cancer patients may find it hard to express their feelings and emotions, especially if they feel no one understands their struggle. By simply saying “I’m here for you,” you could make their day.
An Abundance of Thoughtful Gifts For Breast Cancer Patients
There are many different tools and gifts that can all be helpful to cancer patients. This list is just a starting point for family and friends who want to treat those they love. If these ideas don’t ring true for you, it often helps to put yourself in your loved one’s shoes. What would bring you comfort?
Are you still finding yourself unsure? One of our favorite books is 100 Acts of Love by Kim Hamer. Kim’s book removes the guesswork of what to say, when to say it, and how to offer support.
