Cancer patient gift ideas

[RosesandPumpkins]

Hi, my dad is starting chemo soon and I’d like to have a few ideas up my sleeve of things to send him in the post to bring a smile or support him in some way.

He’s not a very easy person to buy for. But I wonder if anyone has experience of chemotherapy what things were really useful? What things helped cheer you up? Particularly if you are a man or have experience of a male loved one going through it.

Thank you

I'm sorry about your Dad.

I found these bags when my friend was going through chemo, and she absolutely loved every item: www.treatmentbag.co.uk/the-man-bag

I appreciate it's not cheap, but it's a wonderfully thoughtful selection of items.

He will likely spend many hours on a drip if he has chemo. Can be very boring, does he read? I found I was drowsy so not much concentration but needed something to pass the hours. I did a few puzzles, played games on a tablet, read a bit, listened to podcasts.

I've put together pamper packs a few times; nice bubble bath, miniature if he drinks, good book to read or adult colouring / crossword or similar. Any stuff to help him relax after chemo or keep him entertained during really. Also some tempting treats as appetite varies, boiled sweets can be a good idea as you can get mouth sores from chemo.

Not colouring books! No one tells you when you're diagnosed with cancer that it comes with a dozen colouring books that you'll never use

The most appreciated bits that I received were - handwritten cards, difflam mouth spray, cashmere socks, a little handheld fan, sleep spray for my pillow, an audiobook subscription.

Wishing you all the best for his treatment.

I ordered an organic fruit and veg box and added some deli cheeses. They absolutely loved the cheeses. Other things/ideas were a juicer, hat, socks, framed poster with inspirational words, netflix subscription, comfy tshirt, joggers, PJs.

@crazycatladyx audio book is a fab idea. I struggled to read yet would have loved that.
Honestly I'd avoid food or drink because chemo plays havoc with taste buds and digestive system. Nothing tasted right, my favourite foods tasted horrible.
While gifts are lovely the best thing of all is keeping in touch. So many friends and family avoid contact, or get bored of it. It's a long haul and I was very grateful to those who still asked how I was or brought flowers 6 months down the line.

A weighted blanket, beany hat, sweets to suck on, warm socks, books or kindle,.