Message Boards

I posted something online because I was in a really depressed mood - husband's birthday, (one of those times I really miss him), bills overdue, problems with the house, etc. I really vented. Well, the one person that replied to me told me she would keep me in her thoughts and prayers. She ended up coming to my house to give me a few little gifts she had bought me and to tell me we were going out for lunch really soon - that she wouldn't take no for an answer. The reason I felt so awful? This wonderful woman has stage 4 breast cancer that has spread. She was just diagnosed recently. I felt so horrible that here I sat having my own pity party and so many others are so much worse off. Well, now I need some help. I want to make her a kit for when she goes for tests, etc. I remember having one for my husband and I when he was sick but just can't remember what to put in it. I have a pretty journal that I would throw in and I imagine a small pack of tissues, maybe a book or crossword puzzle and pen. Maybe a notebook as I used to write everything down as it was told to me because when you are in those situations your mind just doesn't seem to work as good. I already have a nice big tote to put it all in. Can anyone think of anything else?

Doyou think a small lap robe would be helpful to her during her treatments.It's something that she would be able to use over and over. Also, I just wanted to tell you that I think this is so very thoughtful of you.

Can you remember who or what organization gave you your kit when your husband was in the hospital? Call the hospital auxiliary & see if they know. Does your friend have like embroidery work? That's something that can be put aside quickly and returned to once things settle down again. This lady sounds wonderful and you can count yourself lucky she is your friend. How about a book of uplifting prayers? You are indeed a friend.
Kathleen

Maybe a small bible, a shawl or blanket. If she knits or crochets, maybe a small skein of yarn and the tools.

I think it's a wonderful idea, very thoughtful and compassionate.

Thanks for the replies. It's funny because I was just given a lap robe in red, white and blue. I will add that in. Kathleen, no one gave me the kit. I made it up for myself. Just can't remember all I had in it. Plus a lot of it was for me personally - like rolaids, aspirin, etc. that I won't add in for her since I'm not sure if she can have it. She's on some new chemo pill to supress her hormones but if that doesn't work they will put her on full blown chemo. I remember how it was sitting at the hospital for test after test. I'll have to add in other things (like that idea for crocheting) when I find out what she might be interested in. And believe me, I'm the lucky one is right Kathleen. I was so far down and this angel was there for me. She is the true friend and I'm so blessed to have her. And nole, she already has her own bible that she always has with her but I think I'll make her one of those thong things to keep her place in it. Thanks again!

Such a sweet thoughtful thing for you to do. You might add some crackers and peppermint, as both are good for nausea or just to eat. Maybe a doodle pen and a zentangle book as anybody can do those. Praying for both of you for peace and quick healing.
DJ

This thread is so uplifting! I'm so sorry you were feeling so down on that day, but what a wonderful lady came to your door in kindness, and now you are busy reciprocating! I think it's a proven fact that we always feel best when we are serving. Bless both of you.

a stress ball or just a soft ball to squeeze if in pain

I so agree with KarenMO. You probably do not know the Joy that you gave this lady-Her being able to help you probably was very up lifting for her. And now you are returning and hopefully you will find the same JOY in your giving.
Connie

So sorry that you are having a hard time. It is wonderful to have a friend that is so loving and caring no matter what her problems are. You both are blessing each other and you are feeding each others soul!

Thanks again everyone. Sierra - great one! I totally forgot I bought tennis balls just for that purpose with my husband. Now all I have to do is find them. DJ - thanks. I have some peppermints and a cute little container to keep them in. What is a zentangle book? I missed that one. And Karen and Crafty, I do know she darn well lifted me up. I hope I am doing the same for her. She definitely needs all the uplifting and prayers she can get right now.

What about a little comfort pillow. there are several ideas on the market but something they can hold between their body and arms for comfort in the area. can also be used for the head...

How about some mints and little note cards?
You should not feel bad. She made a friend when she met you, now you are her friend and she needs YOU. How about one of those little fleece lap pads?

Thanks again to all. So far I have a tennis ball, a container that looks like a big pill that I have some mints in and a couple of the individual packs of aspirin, a puzzle book, a lap blanket, a pretty little journal, a small pack of tissues and that's about it for now. I'm making one of those thongs for her bible to keep her place and I'm looking for someplace to buy the individually wrapped packs of crackers - I may just have to go out to eat and snag a few lol. I hate to add too much as it might get too heavy for her to carry but the tote I have is a good sized one. I might just make a smaller lap blanket out of fleece since that would take up less space and be lighter than the crocheted one I have. Will have to wait and see. Thanks again.

Oh and forgot - I'm making a flower pen for her to use too. lol. I made a flower pot filled with them for this wonderful lady at Shannon's school and she keeps them on her desk. Just loves them so I figure it might be something to make Pat smile when she uses it.