How can I let my friend know i'm thinking of her...

[Coffeeandtoast300]

My friend's 3 week old baby is critically ill. The baby has been moved to another hospital, my friend is staying there for the foreseeable future. A few of us want to let her know that we're thinking of her but we don't know how to. We think she has her family with her but this is so hard on them they are not (quite rightly) even thinking about keeping us updated. Is it appropriate to send a gift for the baby? A gift for her? Any advice?

My ds was in HDU for first 2 weeks of life and has been back in hospital a couple of times. The things you want are a little bag of clean pajamas, sachets of hot drinks, nice snacks and some travel toiletries. I'm sure that will make all the difference. You dont want to leave baby so you don't take care of yourself so a little bag of treats for parents would be so helpful and thoughtful and maybe just put a card in it to say you are all thinking of them. Wouldn't put much in for baby as some units don't allow toys etc in for fear of infection. Maybe a tiny comforter or soft toy?

Other than a card, some things that are practical might be - some kind of voucher for groceries with the intention of being spent on ready meals, things that are easy and time-saving; if it's possible, some home-cooked meals; anything that might enable them to spend more time with baby maybe. Something like a wash bag with things in for staying in hospital? A nice towel, a cosy dressing gown. And just to say that you are thinking of her and are around. Very best wishes for you all.

Agree with the others, particularly some home cooked food and a card that says how much you are thinking if them.

If you google 'things to give a hospital patient' or similar you might find some more answers. Prepay cards for phone etc are good.

Thank you all for your comments, I will have a chat with my other concerned friends. Very grateful to you all for reading and commenting, thanks.