By Sharon · 25 items added

posted in Gifts

I was recently diagnosed with breast cancer and received many wonderful, thoughtful gifts that went beyond beautiful fresh cut flowers. As gift giving is often challenging, particularly when someone is sick, I thought I would share my recommendations.

  • Luxury Plush Blanket

    Our sumptuously soft signature plush blanket is woven in an optimal weight for exceptional versatility. The silky pile adds a layer of luxurious warmth throughout the year.

    Sharon says: "Building upon Kindra's suggestion. I used this every night on my sofa - and still do!"
  • Cozy Flannel PJs

    Your friend is going to be a doing a lot of lounging for the next 1-4 weeks depending upon the scope of her initial surgery. Why not make her more comfortable?!

    Sharon says: "Fantastic assortment to choose from!"
    • Kindra Tatarsky: I would also add a cozy robe for the hospital to walk the hospital halls ASAP, some slippers and a cozy blanket to cuddle up under during the days of recovery.
  • A Delivery of Fresh Fruit

    I received a delivery of fresh Riviera pears and some delicious Cara Cara oranges during my recovery and it was a wonderful treat not only for me but my husband too.

    Sharon says: "H&D is a long standing reliable source for quality produce, shipped in a timely manner."
  • Make her Bran Muffins

    After surgery involving anesthesia and pain medicine, her system may be irregular for awhile. Bran muffins can help her get back on track.

    Sharon says: "This is wonderful source for recipes for both casual and experienced cooks. They have lots of bran muffin recipes to choose from."
  • An Introduction and Donation to BAYS

    Through monthly support group meetings, an online network, and community-building events, BAYS members share information, experiences, and resources. Our goal is to break the isolation of living with breast cancer by providing a community built on co...

    Sharon says: "If your friend lives in San Francisco and is under 45, please introduce her to BAYS."
  • Quick Tips for Safe Cosmetics

    EWG created Skin Deep so that people could make safer choices about personal care products for themselves and their family.

    Sharon says: "If your friend has an estrogen responsive tumor, she may want to make changes to the cosmetics and personal care products she uses to reduce the risk of unnecessary estrogen exposure. This website is an excellent resource as is this wallet size reference card."
  • Green Smoothie Goodness

    Sharon says: "Many patients contemplate dietary changes following a cancer diagnosis. Helping your friend go green is one solution. There are a variety of books available on this topic such as this one."
  • Amazon Gift Card | Kindle Fire

    Sharon says: "Let your friend select new music, books or movies to enjoy during her recovery."
  • Apple I-Tunes Gift Card for Music or Movies

    Sharon says: "Let your friend select new music, pod casts or movies to enjoy during her recovery."
    • Kindra Tatarsky: I asked everyone in my support group to send me the name of their favorite song and from that created an awesome "Kicking Cancer" mix. Each song empowers me and reminds me of a person dear to me. Some sent the songs via an iTunes gift card, which was even better! Plus, you get the really fun experience of seeing your friends' eclectic tastes in music.
  • A Beautiful Orchid Plant

    Sharon says: "Fresh cut flower arrangements are beautiful but don’t typically last more than a week. An orchid or other blooming plant will live on and brighten your friend’s home or office, letting her know you’re thinking of her during treatment and not just post surgery."
  • A Healthy Home Cooked Meal

    Sharon says: "Your friend may not be laid up for terribly long but she or her partner are unlikely to feel much like shopping and cooking when they have so much else on their minds. Bringing over a home cooked meal is a wonderful way to say you care. Be sure to ask about any dietary restrictions, preferences or cravings! If you don’t cook, consider services such..."
  • A Selection of Dry Shampoos

    Sharon says: "If you’re friend can’t leave the house or shower, help her experiment with dry shampoos. They are also great for styling:"
  • A Visit to a Blow Dry Salon

    Sharon says: "Your friend may or may not be able to wash her hair post surgery. A visit with you (ride included) to a salon for a wash and blow out is a real treat."
  • Gift Certificate for a Manicure or Pedicure

    Sharon says: "Your friend isn’t likely going to feel much like taking care of herself post surgery. A manicure or pedicure pre or post surgery (ride included) is a great way to spend time together and to treat her to something relaxing."
  • Cancer Sucks Gear

    Sharon says: "Share the sentiment with her!"
  • Inspirational Bracelet

    Sharon says: "Lisa Kaufman Designs created a special design for the Healing Garden, and commissioned a custom charm for it. Give this to your friend to wear as a talisman of faith and hope. Proceeds from sales go directly to support of the Healing Garden mission"
  • Wildly Comfortable Recovery Bra

    Sharon says: "This is an absolute must day and night for post surgery for women who have undergone a lumpectomy."
  • Lush Cotton Hoodie

    After surgery, it is often difficult or impossible to raise your arms for a few days so having something washable and comfortable to wear indoors that zips up is a must. Try these sites but be sure to avoid outerwear.

    Sharon says: "Carries all price points, including Juicy. Ships free within one business day. Easy returns/exchanges."
  • Cashmere Eye Mask and Pillow

    Sharon says: "Wonderful for napping anywhere, any time."
  • Luxurious Down Pillows

    European Squares and Wedge pillows are particularly useful for propping up in bed or on a sofa. Small travel pillows and heart shaped pillows are also comfortable under the arm to provide cushion and protection in bed. Don’t forget to include a cover...

    Sharon says: "The team at down etc. is devoted to providing a great night's sleep. They excel in the art of relaxation. Pillows and duvets are for dreaming. Every time you get in bed, you should feel at home."
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