DIY Cancer Care Basket

There is never a time that I want to hear the news of a friends or family member going through cancer, however, it is inevitable.  I found some things bring so much comfort and are easily put together and given when needed.  I created a list of things and I would love to hear from you about other things we could include.

A few days ago I polled a few friends for ideas on how to help my neighbors.  They have been our neighbors since my oldest was tiny and were one of the first to visit when we had our middle son.  I love that couple dearly and have watched their boys grow up as well.  I'm going to call them Katy and Kent.  Katy, has been like a surrogate Nana to my boys.  She has taught them to plant flowers, how to water them, brings them treats, and just sits and talks to them.  Her husband Kent is a retired veteran who has been an equally amazing "grandfather" figure for the boys.  We could not have asked for better neighbors.  At Christmas we took them over a small gift that Cooper and I had made them and cookies.  We left it on the porch table.  A little while later when they returned home, Kent came over and gave us the most amazing box of cookies.  Then he proceeded to tell us the "news".

He has cancer. Our hearts broke.

About a week ago I dreamed about visiting them and he had started treatments.  When I woke up that morning I could not get it out of my head.  I had no idea when his treatments were starting.  That was a Sunday and they started Monday morning.  I wanted so badly to help or do something that would be helpful.  When I reached out to my friends who had gone through illness and cancer as well, the out pouring of advice flooded in.  I was so grateful for all the responses and many I didn't expect.  I went with my phone in hand that had a list of all of those things that they felt were important.  I wanted to share that with my readers.  So many times we find ourselves in that situation, not knowing how we can help.

The list led to a basket full of small items.  Again, I wrapped it and wrote a card out and left it on their table on their porch.  Later that day Katy rang my doorbell.  She went on and on about how she could not get over every little thing that was in there.  From wet wipes to a lavender candle which she already had burning in his room because it had been "one of those days."  I hope this list is helpful.  I pray that it brings comfort to so many.

Love Package Ideas
Gift Cards
 restaurants or grocery stores,
 gas for trips to and from doctor visits,
prescriptions, copays, or medical bills.
Lotion
Sensitive Toothpaste
Hard Candy or Lemon Drops
Warm Blanket
Good Book/Magazine
Heating Pads
Rice Sock
Daily Texts/Scriptures
Organizer for Medical Bills
List of Support Groups/Resources
Non Perishables for the pantry
ex. cheezits, soup, oatmeal, 
Stock the Freezer
Essential Oils
Essentials
Ex. paper towels, paper plates, disposable cups,
toilet paper, plastic ware.
Snacks
Gloves & Hats/Head Wrap
Hold a Fundraiser for bills
Mints/Gum
Travel Hand Sanitizer/Wet Wipes
Bottles of Water
Crossword Puzzle/Word Search Books
Rolls of Quarters
Dollar Bills 
for parking/vending machines
Devotional
Nail File
Lip Balm
Movie
Lounge Pants/Slippers
Flowers
Meals
Cards/Hand Written Notes of Encouragement
This was the biggest and most important thing on every list.
Lavender Candle
Pad of Paper/Journal


Ways to Serve
Hugs
Prayers
Sharing Scripture
Cooking Meals
A Sitter
Give caregiver time to get out or take a nap
Run Errands
Get Groceries
Take Out Garbage
Mow Lawn/Water Flowers
Laundry/House Work
Ears to Listen
Arms to Hug
Keep Cars Full of Gas
Driving to and from appointments
Walk the dog
Play games or cards together.
I am certain there are many other things that could go on these lists, especially if the patient is a child.  Feel free to leave comments below of anything that might be helpful to someone.