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For Everyone Touched By Cancer

68 Best Gifts For Chemo Patients

Written by Dr Shara Cohen on 
25th September, 2023
Updated: 29th January, 2024
Estimated Reading Time: 14 minutes

The process of going through chemotherapy can be scary and, at times, alienating. If you have a friend, family member or loved one undergoing chemotherapy, you may be trying to find a way in which you can show your support and let them know you are there for them, no matter what. This article discusses the helpful things you buy, but we will start with the two most common frequently asked questions.

FAQ

What can I do for a friend going through chemo?

There are many thoughtful things you can do for cancer patients that may help, including giving the gift of your time and/or someone they can talk to. Also learning how to talk to a cancer patient can help both them and you.

Helping with hospital visits, being thoughtful when visiting, researching the important resources/services that they may want ....these are all helpful and valuable ways to show support to any cancer patient. You can read How To Help Someone With Cancer: What You Need To Know for more general ideas of what you can do.

But someone having chemo has extra needs and considerations, they have specific side effects to deal with and regular intense hospital visits. There are many things you can do and get in these specific circumstances. These are discussed below.

What do cancer patients want as gifts?

There is a wide range of therapy-safe comfort and practical gifts you can give, that are thoughtful and appropriate.

We know that everyone is unique, but also everyone's cancer is unique. So there is no absolute ideal gift that will suit all cancer patients. Added to this is the fact that everyone responds to treatment differently. So below are ideas of things you can do or shop for, but please do bear in mind:-

*the cancer patient
*their treatment (not all cancer treatment is the same)
*their response to treatment (side effects can vary alot)

Here are our best gift ideas for a chemotherapy patient

We have listed the best gifts for cancer patientsbelow with chemo patients in mind, even though some may be suitable for cancer patients in general. For example items like lip balm can be soothing for cancer patients, but are of particular use for people undergoing chemotherapy because they may get dry or chapped lips.

68 Gifts to purchase for chemo patients: Ideas from lip balm to online classes

We have listed our suggested gifts for someone going through chemoin no particular order, as there is no best or worst gift to get cancer or chemo patients. They may not all be suitable, you know your friend/loved one better than we do. So as you go through this list please think of who your friend/loved one is and if you can, what side effects they are experiencing and choose the gift or gifts you think would benefit them the best.

10 Clothes and accessories

1. Loungewear

High-quality loungewear can help cancer patients feel comfortable and relaxed, no matter where they may be.

2. Pyjamas

During and after chemo treatment, many patients experience fatigue and may spend more time in bed. Prioritize their comfort and help them unwind with a luxurious pajama set!

3. Functional Clothing

Although many chose to wear loungewear when undergoing treatment, others prefer to stick to their usual clothing style. You can help by buying clothes they will love but are functional.

4. Bathrobe/Lounge Robe

A cozy robe gift means the cancer patient will be comfortable no matter where they go and can be worn year-round. Also helpful for potential hospital stays and convalescence.

5.    Cozy Socks

A cancer patient going through chemotherapy has to sit still for a large amount of time. They are also more susceptible to the cold, so a trusted pair of warm bed socks is a nice comforting chemo gift. And even if the chemo treatment doesn't make them cold, they can give a comfy, pampering feeling which may be needed.

6.    Hats

Hats are another great way to ensure cancer patients will stay warm during treatment. When you shop for a hat, make sure that it is made of a gentle fabric. But remember that not everyone who has chemo treatment loses their hair, so you might just want to buy a hat as a gift for warmth and not hair loss. Plus hair loss can be a sensitive subject, so make sure this is the correct thing to buy. Check with the cancer patient or the people who are close to them first.

7.    Scarves

Scarves are another good gift for chemo patients, to help keep them warm during chemo treatment.  We suggest that they are small and lightweight, so they can be layered.

8.    Gloves

As mentioned above chemo treatment could make patients cold and usually the first parts to feel the cold are the hands. A good gift to deal with this could be warm 'touch-screen' friendly gloves that will still allow phone usage.

9.   Cardigans/Jumpers

Cardigans are another good gift idea for chemo patients, especially as they can be taken on and off when needed. Opt for soft, gentle natural fabrics as opposed to heavy, itchy knits.

10. Slippers

When undergoing treatment, comfort is always key. Therefore, a pair of comfy slippers might be a welcome gift.

Adult colouring books are a great stress-reliever and can help pass the time quicker.

10 Items for passing the time

1. Books or magazines

Chemo treatment takes time and novels, magazines or audiobooks can help pass that time and take the mind away from the stress of cancer and its therapies. Please bear in mind that sometimes treatment can cause brain fog, so it might be best to get something light and easy to read.

2.   A Colouring Book and Colouring Pencils

Adult coloring books are a great stress-reliever and can help pass the time quicker. And if you're getting them a coloring book gift, it only makes sense to get them some good-quality pens and pencils to help bring their work to life!

3. Notebook/Diary

A notebook or diary is another good gift idea, as it can use it to track chemo and other hospital/therapy appointments or the cancer patient can write about how they are feeling.

4. Portable games console

Game consoles are a great way to pass the time. Even better, the patient can play online against friends and family, staying connected during this difficult time.

5. Puzzle Books

Puzzle books also may help pass the time whilst undergoing treatment, as long as they do not have 'chemo brain fog'. Some great options include Sudoku, word searches, and crosswords.

6. Kindle

A Kindle is lightweight, compact, and can contain thousands of books in its hard drive. As a result, its an excellent for a bookworm who has been diagnosed with cancer.

7. Board Games

Travel-sized board games are another great way to pass the time and can be played with family, friends, or other patients.

8. Embroidery Set

Many patients enjoy taking part in crafts during their treatment, so an embroidery set might give them an opportunity to try out something new and stay productive.

9. Puzzles

Puzzles, such as jigsaws, can be a good way to distract from the treatment and also something to do at home whilst convalescing.

10. Hobby Related Gifts

Just because they are undergoing chemotherapy treatment, does not mean the fun has to stop and they may not want to let go of their hobbies and interests. So gifts focusing on these might be a good choice.

21 Chemo comfort items: products to pamper, comfort, and provide stress relief

1. Soft Blanket

A warm cozy blanket is an appropriate comfort gift for chemotherapy patients and can also help fight off feelings of cold. Choose a lightweight and soft blanket so that it can easily be carried.

2. Heated Blanket

If the cancer patient is feeling particularly cold, a heated blanket is a perfect solution - it can have their body a nice toasty and warm in no time at all!

3. Hand And Nail Cream

Chemo treatment can affect skin and nails and moisturizing the skin regularly can reduce soreness and pain. So a gentle non-perfumed hand cream might be a welcome and helpful gift.

4. Moisturisers

As we have said, cancer treatments can be dehydrating and this will affect their skin. So a nice body or face moisturizer lotion might not only be welcome but could be a nice pampering item.

5. Bubble Bath or Shower Gel

If your friend/loved on is suffering from aches and pains, you can purchase a specialist bubble bath designed to soothe tired and aching muscles.

Shower gel can also be a good gift, especially if you buy products designed that may help ease some of the symptoms they are feeling - such as fatigue, tension, or anxiety.

Just make sure that the bubble bath or shower gel is gentle on the skin as they may be more sensitive than usual.

6. Hand Soap

A nice gentle on the skin, non-perfumed, natural handsoap might be a welcome gift, as the patient may need to pay closer attention to their hygiene because they will be more susceptible to infection.

7. Eye Mask

An eye mask can block out surrounding lights and relieve tension. This can help them sleep more comfortably both during chemo and in convalescence.

8. Neck, Inflatable, V-shaped Pillow or Snuggly Pillow

During chemo treatment, there is a lot of time spent sitting down. A soft pillow or neck rest can be very valuable to put under the legs or behind the head for support and comfort.  If they feel fatigued or uncomfortable, a V-pillow is a great way to help them relax and unwind. It will also give support to the whole body. Helpful for home and hospital.

9. Lip Balm

I don't think we need to mention the effects of chemo on dehydration anymore!  Lips are also affected and a nice, delicate non-fragranced lip balm can be a good soother.

10. Essential Oils

Essential oils have been shown to help battle feelings of stress and anxiety and promote a good night's sleep. In fact studies in cancer patients indicate that those exposed to essential oils had reduced anxiety, stress, and nausea and improved sleep. Aromatherapy is generally considered safe, but allergic/hypersensitivity reactions and contact dermatitis have been reported with lavender, bergamot, and other essential oils. So it's best to check with your friend/ loved one, whether they have any skin or other sensitivities before buying.

11. Stuffed Animals

Stuffed animals are a traditional gift to give to somebody when they are sick - and for a good reason. Sweet and comforting, they can be the best choice for the right type of person.

12. Memory Books

Scrapbooks or photo albums are a great gift to show a cancer patient you have been thinking about them. It could be helpful in lifting their spirits considerably.

13. Heating Pads

If your loved one is experiencing any aches and pains, heating pads are a useful as they can help deal with pain and relieve any tension they may be holding in their muscles.

14. Foot Spa

A foot spa is another good way to ensure chemo patients can relax and unwind, especially if they are feeling particularly tired or groggy.

15. Body Roller

Chemo patients often hold a lot of tension in their body - a body roller can be a good way to help them relax their muscles and unwind. Do check first though whether they have had any lymph nodes removed. As a massage in areas of lymph node removal is not recommended

16. Eye Gel Mask

If your friend/loved one is feeling fatigued after undergoing treatment, a gel eye mask can help them relax, helping them feel more like their ‘normal’ self.

17. Online Guided Meditation Class

Meditation can be a great way to relax, but if you have never done it before, it can be hard to know where to start. An online class with an instructor means they will be able to get to grips with the basics.

18. Inspirational Art Or A Framed Photograph

Framed prints, posters and canvases are a good gift if you find the perfect photograph or quote to feature. Focus on memories you have shared that capture your relationship. Or perhaps something inspirational or comforting?

19. Fidget Spinner

Fidget spinners are more than just a toy; they have been proven to help deal with feelings of stress and anxiety.

20. Silk Bedding

Silk bedding not only feels soft and luxurious, it is also excellent for those with sensitive skin, and unlike other materials does not collect dust.

21. Stress Ball

Sometimes, cancer patients will need to find a way to relieve their stress and tension. A stress ball can help.

9 Food and drink-related items

1. Peppermint Tea

This is our first exception to the no foods rule that we mentioned at the start of this article.   Peppermint tea is a good relaxer for both the mind and body and there is nothing in it that would interfere with any therapy.  Also, if there is chemotherapy nausea, peppermint tea can help.

2. Other Herbal Teas

Herbal teas have a range of benefits, from settling an uneasy stomach to soothing anxiety and stress. You can now also find teas to help sleep, relax, be more awake...... There is such a wide variety. And the great thing about herbal teas is that they are naturally caffeine-free, so you don't have to worry about any caffeine side effects. You can also get some great gift sets. For any tea lover, the possibilities are endless.

3. Ginger

Ginger, whether in the form of sweets or herbal tea, is an excellent tool in fighting feelings of nausea.

This is another exception to our rule regarding no food.  As there is evidence that when taken with standard anti-nausea medications, ginger can reduce or eliminate nausea and vomiting which can occur during and after chemotherapy treatments.  It is also cancer treatment safe.

4. Snacks

During treatment, a patient should have access to snacks. Try to provide them with a mixture of healthy, nutritious food and a few sweet treats. But please be sure to follow our guidelines on chemo patients' dietary changes, and what they should and should not eat.

5. Mints

Mints can help somebody freshen up and can also be used to alleviate feelings of chemo-induced nausea. Before you get these check with the patient on how their diet may have changed.

6. Fancy Water Bottle

Chemotherapy can be very dehydrating and it's always good to stay hydrated at the best of times.  A few little water bottles or a fancy water bottle is a good reminder to drink.

7. A Home-Cooked Meal or a Takeaway

You can be a big help by providing them with home-cooked meal delivery to their door. Alternatively, you can batch cook and store meals in their freezer so that all they have to do is heat it.

However, sometimes, there is nothing better than a good takeaway at the end of a long day. So you perhaps treat them to a take-out from their favorite restaurant.

But before you make or buy a meal, please do make sure you understand the effects of chemo on appetite and diet and if in doubt ask if certain foods are OK.

8. Vouchers for Takeaways/Restaurant 

Your friend/loved one may already be dreaming about the first place they can go after their treatment is complete, when they don't feel so nauseous and can go back to their old eating habits. You can make this experience even more special by gifting them with a voucher from their favorite restaurant.

9. Cool Bag

There is nothing worse than going to take a sip of water, and it is warm! Help ensure chemotherapy patients stay hydrated by giving them a small cool bag in which they can store their water and snacks or medicines

11 Practical gifts

1. Backpack Or Travel Bag

A spacious backpack or bag is a great way to ensure there is enough space to carry everything they need, and means they won’t have to carry multiple bags to treatments.

2. Anti-Sickness Bracelets

Feeling queasy is a common effect of chemo; as a result, an anti-sickness bracelet can help give some relief with no additional side effects.

3. Travel Toothbrush

Your friend may feel as though their mouth is quite dry or experience an unpleasant taste in their mouth during chemo. A travel toothbrush means they can help ease some of these symptoms.

4. Mouthwash

As mentioned previously, patients having chemo may need a way to wash out bad tastes from their mouths, and mouthwash will do this.

5. Ipad/Phone Stand

An Ipad stand means that they don't constantly have to have a device in their hands, which can be tiresome when watching a movie or listening to music.

6. Lap Tray

A lap tray ensures that your friend/loved one does not have to balance loads of things directly on their lap and that they have easy access to everything they need when resting in bed or on the sofa. Also useful for any hospital stays.

7. USB Light

A USB light is a useful gift, especially if your friend likes to read late at night as they won’t have to disturb anyone or go out of their way to turn the light off.

8. Hot Water Bottles

A hot water bottle is a great way to warm up. You could purchase more than one - a small one they can bring along to appointments and a larger one when relaxing at home.

9. Headphones

Spare headphones are essential for some, to ensure the chemo patient can 'check out' from what is happening around them and listen to their music, audiobooks, or Television show.

10. Earplugs

Sometimes,  a patient may prefer to sleep during therapy. Earplugs block out the surrounding noise, meaning they will fall asleep quicker. They might also help later in the day when at home and trying to get much-needed rest.

21. Portable chargers

The patient is likely to be using many devices during this time, which can quickly run out of battery. A portable charger ensures they always have access to the materials they need.

5 Subscription services

1. An Audiobook Subscription

Physical copies of books can be heavy and difficult to carry around and sometimes more mentally draining than an audiobook. Therefore, your friend may benefit from a subscription to an audiobook service, such as audible. They can then sit back, relax, and listen to a new book each month!

2. Music Service Subscription

Music can be a good way to relax during and after therapy sessions, it could also help take the mind away from the everyday stress of cancer.

A subscription to a music service, such as Spotify, can provide your friends with hours of entertainment. You could even make them a personalized playlist.

3. TV/Film Streaming Subscription

Like a music subscription, a TV streaming subscription can help pass the long hours they are spending at the hospital or inside their home.

4. Amazon Prime Subscription

As a result of the treatment, your friend may not be able to visit the shops.  By providing them with a subscription to Amazon Prime, they can order anything they need to be delivered to their door the very next day.

5. Magazine Subscription

Whether they are a fashion lover or a fan of crafts, finding a magazine subscription that matches your friend's interests will provide them with hour upon hour of entertainment during therapy and when resting at home.

Chemotherapy Care Packages

Putting together or buying a cancer/chemo gift pack is a very thoughtful way to show you care. If you are putting together your own chemo care pack or gift basket then there are lots of ideas here that can guide you on what may be appropriate. Or you might want to get one of our care packs, which are designed by people who have had experience with cancer and chemo and are packed with items that will genuinely help.

Below is a selection of our chemo hamper ideas

And here is a selection of pampering care packages

Charity Donation

If your loved one is relying on the support of a particular charity during this time, they may prefer that you make a charitable donation as opposed to purchasing a gift.

So..what is a good gift for a cancer patient undergoing chemotherapy?

Although we have tried to give our best gift ideas for a chemotherapy patient, everyone is individual, has their own likes and dislikes, and will respond to treatment differently. So please make sure when you get your friend or loved one a gift, or are putting together a care package, that you get something appropriate to them and their treatment. The best thing you can always give is your support, time and a listening ear. A great chemo gift is a nice added extra or an important indication that you care about and support them when you cannot be there in person to give support. We are very happy to hear your thoughts and suggestions.....

Further Reading

More gift advice

Worst Gifts For Cancer Patients

How To Choose Thoughtful Gifts For Cancer Patients

Gifts For Female Cancer Patients: Hugs, Gifts And A Lot More Discussed.

Thoughtful Gifts For Male Cancer Patients

Top 10 Items For A Chemo Care Package

Providing help

My Friend Has Cancer

Cancer Blogs

How to Help Someone With Breast Cancer

How To Help Someone Going Through Radiotherapy

What Is Chemotherapy And Why Is It Given To People With Cancer?

What To Pack In A Chemo Bag

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