Since becoming a cancer patient, I have realized that my response to others in this same situation has not always been ideal. I'm always afraid I may upset them by calling. What if they don't want to talk about it? So, in order to help others who have a friend with a serious diagnosis, I have started a list of "things you can do for your friend." Feel free to comment, especially if you have been in this situation--what did you really appreciate or need?
Phone call, email, or card? (Trust what you know about them--are they an email person or a phone person? Do what you think would be most comfortable for them, but do respond to the diagnosis in some way.)
DO something; Do NOT say "Call me if you need anything." (They probably won't.)
So, what can I do?
Pray
Let your friend know that you are praying, and that you have enlisted others to pray, as well
Call, email, send a note or a card (whichever is best for your friend)
Continue to keep in touch (most people will neglect this after a while)
Gift ideas:
Fresh fruit, fruit salad
Case of ginger ale
Case of water
Soup
Supper (in a disposable or container you don't need returned)
Soft, cozy blanket
Parking money for the hospital
Chauffeur service to the hospital/treatments/doctor's office
An aromatherapy candle (lavender is supposed to be relaxing)
Check on the house/apartment; feed the pets
Paperback novels
Fun DVD's (America's Funniest Home Videos, Murder She Wrote, Diagnosis Murder, whatever genre or star or series you know that your friend likes)
Stuffed animals, if they are the type that likes them
A comfortable pillow for resting on the couch
Homemade cookies
1/2 day of maid service
What would you like or need? Please comment!
8 comments:
What a good idea - people want to do something that will be helpful and make a difference! Thoughtfulness in any form is appropriate and touches the heart. When Hannah was born, we were in FL completely alone, (no family) and a newly married 20 year old girl brought a casserole over to our house. I couldn't eat it because it because it was full of onions and spicy - but I will never forget the love that we felt by that small act of kindness!!!
Now I LOVE this list! I email you all the time asking crazy questions--now I have a list to work on! YES!
This is a fantastic idea! As you said so many people are silent because thay don't know what to say or do. I so admire the way you are dealing with this situation. God Bless you and keep you,each day as you continue to shine for Him.
Bess
Mindy,
Super! That is really some great ideas! But, you didn't give us any details. Like...ummmm....aaa..what is your favorite brand of cigar? he he
Praying for you and we look forward to the day you post that you have beaten this! Praise God! I still believe in miracles!
-Bob L.
2 Sam 22:32-34 - For who is God, save the LORD? and who is a rock, save our God? God is my strength and power: and he maketh my way perfect. He maketh my feet like hinds' feet: and setteth me upon my high places.
Mindy,
I was in prayer throughout the day for you. I hope everything went well. You're a great encouragement to me. I enjoy going onto your website. I know you are touching many other lives with a word of hope and glorifying God.
I Googled "My friend has cancer" because I am so frustrated. I want to do something and your post is very comforting.
I'm glad, Moon. Be there for your friend. They may need a ride to and from treatment, or supper fixed for their family. God bless.
Huh. I typed in "My friend has cancer," too.
My friend had to leave the state to go to a hospital for treatment.
I thought of something cool to do for her/them. I went to restaurant.com and I purchased several gift certificates for restaurants close to their hotel location. They will be dining out - A LOT!
Try it.
Post a Comment