The Dos and Don’ts of Gifting to Someone in Chemo Treatment
In life’s heaviest moments, it’s hard to know what to do or say. That’s why many people feel nervous or hesitant when showing their support for loved ones undergoing chemotherapy. What’s the best way to be there for them? How do you know what to offer them? What happens if you mess up?
There’s no right answer. However, there are plenty of mistakes you can avoid with some thoughtfulness. Read on to explore the dos and don’ts of gifting to someone in chemo treatment, and learn how to pick out meaningful gifts for your loved one.
Do: Focus on Practicality
You could give a loved one a sentimental gift, including shirts, pins, and ribbons with anti-cancer slogans. These things have their time and place, but that isn’t during chemo treatment. Your loved one is going through an extremely long and difficult treatment plan that takes a huge toll on both the mind and body. Instead of offering them another stylized catchphrase, try gifting them something they can actually use.
Practical gifts, such as lip balms, moisturizers, water bottles, ice packs, cozy socks, and self-care goodies, address the challenges of chemotherapy. They offer a little bit of comfort for your loved one, letting your support help them relax at the end of a hard day.
Don’t: Take Away Their Control
When gifting to someone in chemo treatment, you need to find ways to help them without overstepping their boundaries. The line between helpful and overbearing is different for everyone. Some people will love that you’re cooking them dinner for a night, while others would prefer to choose their own meals so they can make sure everything is prepared the way they want. Keep in mind that someone who appreciates a ride to appointments one week might prefer to be by themselves the next week.
It’s important to pay attention and be mindful of the desires and needs of your loved one. Be open and flexible so that you can be exactly what your loved one needs you to be. This lets you offer assistance without making them feel helpless.
Do: Avoid Strong Scents
Even universally beloved scents can become torturous in the midst of chemotherapy. The smell of lavender—which so many people adore because of its calming nature—can make someone feel nauseous and miserable when undergoing chemo.
Avoid giving your loved one something with a potent scent. This means steering clear of a lot of traditional gifts, such as flowers or candles. If you want to buy something scented—such as essential oils to help with nausea—go with light options like mint or citrus. Also, opt for unscented moisturizers, lip balms, and other self-care goods. When in doubt, you can always check with your loved one to see what they can and can’t handle right now. A little communication goes a long way when picking out a gift.
Don’t: Lean Into Cliché
When emotions are high and you don’t know what to say, it’s easy to fall back on clichés. Frivolous emotional messages or witty slogans don’t really mean anything, and they certainly don’t do anything. In fact, some clichés can be more harmful than helpful, even if you mean well. For example, calling your loved one a victim or a warrior can make them feel helpless. Referring to their serious medical treatment as a “journey” can undermine the harsh reality of cancer and treatment, taking away the inherent challenges of their situation. It could even come off as making light of the illness or your loved one.
Be mindful of what you say in person and in written messages. You don’t have to be perfect with words, but avoiding clichés ensures you don’t sound cheap and flat when offering support.
Do: Speak From the Heart
Avoiding clichés doesn’t mean you can’t be heartfelt or emotional! Personal messages, letters, and cards can be thoughtful additions to any gift as long as they come from the heart. This is a great way to share how you truly feel and show your support, care, and love. When you’re talking on the phone or in person, it’s important to be honest and genuine.
Even if you’re admitting that you don’t know what to do or say, giving your loved one an authentic show of love and support is more meaningful than pre-written statements. Remember, you don’t have to be perfect—you just have to be there.
Don’t: Give Them Something They Can’t Use
Cancer takes a lot out of people, which means there are plenty of cool and thoughtful gifts that your loved one might not have the time or energy for. Be careful with presents such as tickets to concerts or sports games, tight or complicated clothing (even if it’s cute!), or stuff for hobbies that take more time or endurance than they currently have, such as playing sports or doing elaborate crafts.
Everyone’s limits are different. Listening to your loved one about what they can and can’t do right now is the key to giving a gift they will actually use during their chemo treatment.
Do: Listen and Be Thoughtful
As with any good gift, thoughtfulness is key. A gift that speaks to someone’s personality and interests is always more meaningful than something generic.
Keep an ear out for what your loved one needs or wants. Do they complain of cold feet whenever they’re relaxing? A pair of soft, cozy socks could be a perfect gift. Do they struggle to wind down and take a nap, even if they’re exhausted? A warm blanket, eye mask, or soft pillow can help them relax and rest for a while.
The more attention you pay to your loved one, the easier it is to find the perfect gift that speaks to their needs.
Shop Thoughtful Gifts at The Balm Box
The Balm Box offers a range of chemo care packages that have everything you need to offer thoughtful, meaningful support to your loved one. Explore practical gift options when you visit us online today!
