Gifts that Matter
Finding the right gift can be challenging, especially when you’re shopping for someone undergoing cancer treatment or supporting a caretaker. While being there for a friend or family member is one of the most meaningful gifts you can give, a thoughtful present can help make everyday life a little easier, more comfortable, or more enjoyable. We heard from patients and caretakers on what they’d most appreciate as a gift, from hospital essentials to help at home.
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Present Ideas For Patients
Refillable water bottle
Do better than the typical reusable water bottle and opt for LARQ, a self-cleaning one with a smart built-in water purification system. It’s perfect for cancer patients when spending long days at the hospital, by reducing maintenance and adding convenience while helping keep your water clean and cold for hours!
Bath & beauty products
Unscented dry skin products are optimal for anyone undergoing cancer treatment. Our team also loves the simple and effective products from 1818 Farms, and they even make a chemo patient care package.
Cozy blankets & slippers
A cozy blanket and slippers are a must. Barefoot Dreams makes soft, washable throws, which are perfect for someone going through cancer treatment. OluKai is another great brand that provides sustainable comfort, such as the Maloa Men’s Slippers, while giving back through partnering with local organizations to preserve and promote Hawaii’s rich culture and traditions.
Go-to tote bag
Schlepping back and forth between cancer treatments, appointments, and checkups is stressful enough without having to worry about keeping tabs on your stuff. Check out SCOUT Original Deano bags, designed by founder Deb Waterman Johns to be the ultimate functional tote for all. We love this bag because you can wipe away all of the hospital germs on the outside with your favorite disinfecting wipe or spray.
Bluetooth tracker
A Bluetooth tracker is the unsung hero of misplaced keys, wallets, bag, you name it. Consider Apple Air Tags or Tile by Life360 Essentials pack. If you’re juggling doctor visits, treatment schedules, and daily responsibilities, this provides an extra peace of mind that goes a long way during the cancer journey.
Sunrise alarm clock
Treatments can throw you totally out of whack, and sunrise alarm clocks help capture some sense of normalcy for your body rhythm. Double down on the sleep aid with Hatch, the smart gadget that manages to be a meditation app, sunrise alarm, sound machine and smart light all in one. It’s a thoughtful gift for cancer patients that helps improve sleep, relaxation, and overall well-being during treatment and recovery.
Noise-canceling headphones
A nice set of noise-canceling headphones come in handy on cancer treatment days. A few options: Bose QuietComfort Bluetooth Headphones (a great but pricey buy), Anker Soundcore Life Q20 (a top budget buy), or some affordable, sleek EarFun Air Pro 4 earbuds.
Washable stuffed animals
It is often tough to know what to get a child who is diagnosed with cancer. However, we found these adorable, washable stuffed dogs, cats, elephants, and hippos from B. Toys that are sure to be a huge hit, and great to bring for cancer treatment days. We’ve got our immunosuppressed little ones covered!
Creative Gifts For Caretakers
Healthy food delivery
Help nourish the caretaker you care about with a food delivery service subscription. Hello Fresh, Home Chef, and Blue Apron are all great options that take the thinking out of cooking (and put a little fun back in). If you want to gift a fully prepared meal service subscription, consider Cook Unity. As one of the most practical gifts for caregivers, meal delivery services reduce daily stress and free up time for caregiver self-care. If you’re looking for more cooking ideas, check out our blog about cancer-focused cookbooks.
Spa packages
Gift cards or packages for a well-deserved spa day will always be welcome. From massages to facials to nails, a little R&R goes a long way.
Homemade coupons
Go back to basics with homemade coupons! Offer to take over their duties for a day or a weekend so they can enjoy some time to themselves. Thoughtful gifts for cancer caregivers don’t have to be expensive. Meaningful support can look like simply giving them time to rest during a challenging cancer journey.
House cleaning service
Getting home to a messy place is the last thing anybody wants, especially if you’re mentally and physically tired from caring for someone. Gift a few visits from a house cleaning service so they don’t even have to think about mopping or doing the dishes. This is a great practical gift for caregivers, easing responsibilities and providing support during an already stressful time.
Entertainment For All
Patients, caretakers, friends and family alike can all benefit from a little entertainment during a heavy or stressful time. For patients, that means relief from the constant waiting cycle. For caretakers, it could mean the same, or even a little escape from their everyday duties now and again. Read on for our gift ideas for keeping the mind active and entertained.
Streaming subscriptions
There’s no shortage of content online, from Netflix to Hulu, HBO Max to Amazon Prime Video. Disney+ is a great family-friendly option, and if your giftee already has all the subs, consider giving them an add-on for an existing account (like adding Showtime or Paramount, for example). Among the best gifts for cancer caregivers are those that encourage them to take a break, unwind, and enjoy a little entertainment after a long day.
Mindfulness escape
Meditation apps abound these days, and few of us couldn’t do with a little mental moment. Give a subscription to an app like Calm or Insight Timer for the gift of peace of mind.
Virtual therapy
Platforms like Better Help offer virtual therapy for reasonable prices, and that’s something we can all get behind. Covering some (or all) of your loved one’s membership ensures they have the support they need. Mental health support is one of the most meaningful gifts for caregivers, providing a safe space to process the emotions and challenges that often come with caring for someone during a cancer journey.
Online book clubs & library cards
Reese’s Book Club is a great gift for avid readers, and books purchased through the club are funneled into their children’s literacy program, The Readership. If you are looking for something different, Between Two Books was founded in 2012 by Florence Welch, the lead singer of the band Florence + The Machine, and features book recommendations from various artists, writers, and directors, allowing members to explore diverse voices and perspectives. The Book of the Month club also makes for another nice present, as does Libby, the app that puts the “local library in your pocket.” Audible is also perfect for anyone who prefers to listen.
Language learning apps
Everyone knows that person who simply can’t sit still or not be doing something. That person might make the most of downtime with an excellent language-learning app, like Duo Lingo, Babbel, or Rosetta Stone.
The gift of knowledge
There are so many options on Masterclass, there is quite literally something for everyone. Give a session with your giftee’s favorite expert or celeb for a unique experience they won’t soon forget. For cancer caregivers, learning something new can provide a welcome mental break from caregiving responsibilities and offer an opportunity to focus on their own interests.
Gentle workouts
Movement does the body good, so check out the Peloton app, which features tons of classes that don’t require the pricey stationary bike (and are also much more relaxed than cycling up a hill). One Fitness is another app with great on-demand classes for every level, from prenatal and stretching to pilates and yoga. Whether it’s a quick stretch, yoga session, or guided workout, regular movement can help caregivers manage stress, recharge, and prioritize their own well-being throughout the cancer journey.
