Gift Ideas for Someone Going Through Chemo
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. You might have seen fundraisers floating around in addition to stories from those who have lived/ are living with breast cancer, pink ribbons, and solidarity. However, the one post that stood out to me the most was a recent post from a friend and fellow dodgeball player, Keriann Engle. She was diagnosed with Breast Cancer earlier this year and her strength has been nothing short of inspiring. I think one of the most admirable characteristics she possesses, is that even through a tough time, she still finds it in her heart to help others and I thank her for allowing me to share this post.
There are more ways than one to help support a cause or an individual through something like cancer. If you’re ever at a loss for how to help someone with cancer going through chemo therapy, Keriann kindly shares from experience the best gift ideas for someone going through chemo:
“People ask me somewhat regularly what to get people going through chemo. As I’m getting near the end of treatment, I thought I’d write down what has been helpful to me for future reference as needed.
Defy & Inspire Nail Lacquer, available at Target. Chemo made my nails turn dark. It also caused my skin to be reactive to light, which makes gel manicures difficult. This is a non-gel polish that actually lasts.
Jojoba oil, available at Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, and Amazon. Chemo made my skin and lips incredibly dry. Putting oil on dry patches before lotion and lip balm is the only thing that has worked.
Sudoku or crossword puzzle books. My oncologist told me that the best way to fight “chemo brain,” or absentmindedness during chemo, is to keep the brain engaged. I’m still working, so I keep my mind engaged with dealing with the (often confusing) work product of hordes of attorneys. As a result, I haven’t tried this personally. I think this could be helpful for people who aren’t working while in treatment.
A weighted blanket helps a lot with anxiety, particularly at night. Really, any type of cozy blanket is a good gift. Mine is from Sensory Goods, but I got mine years ago and weighted blankets are now more widely available. Costco has great prices on regular blankets.
Head coverings. My personal favorites came from TLC Direct, which is the American Cancer Society’s shop. It offers a large variety of high-quality choices. Amazon also has options, of course.
Sun protection products. My face skin reacts terribly to sunblock, which I’m supposed to wear all the time during chemo. After a lot of trial and error and wasted money, I landed on Glossier Invisible Shield and Supergoop Defense Refresh Setting Mist, both available online.
Eyebrow and eyelash products. Having my eyebrows and eyelashes thin out somehow makes my reflection look more foreign to me than losing my hair. My personal favorites are Grande Conditioning Peptide Mascara and MAC Shape + Shade Brow Tint.
Ginger and mint products help with inflammation in the mouth. This includes sushi ginger, teas, lozenges, and gum.
Hand sanitizer products. I think Aesop’s is the best, but it’s of course hugely expensive.
Gift cards. A lot about cancer treatment varies by the individual, and finding solutions to side effects is an process that involves buying a lot of stuff that doesn’t work out. Gift cards to Amazon, Target, Walmart, or wherever have been very appreciated. Gift cards that work for grocery delivery are also extremely helpful.
If you live in close proximity to the person, though, the best gift you can give is your time. Propose activities you can do together that are not physically taxing (puzzles, card games, bingeing TV shows or watching movies, preparing simple meals or snacks and then enjoying them, beginner-level yoga—especially if the person enjoys being active). A brief visit to sit and chat can do wonders for mental well-being. Ask on what days he or she typically feels best, and suggest getting together on those days. Of course ask first, but don’t shy away from physical touch. When I was in the depths of my suffering, hugs and back rubs were one of the only comforts for me. Everyone needs to feel loved and supported, and that’s even more true when dealing with a situation as stressful and traumatic as cancer.”
Keriann Engle is a lawyer, runner, and dodgeballer in Los Angeles. She was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 35, and is passionate about raising awareness of the risk of breast cancer, especially in people under 40.