Home Cancer Information Library Putting together a care package for someone going through cancer treatment

Putting together a care package for someone going through cancer treatment

When someone you know is going through cancer treatment, it can be tricky to know what support might be most appreciated during this difficult time.

Putting together a care package with thoughtful and practical items that can help your family member, friend or loved one cope with the challenges and demands of treatment can be one way of supporting them and letting them know you care.

We recently asked our Facebook community in Australia what items they would appreciate if someone was putting a care package together for them. Here’s some of the items they found most useful that you might consider including:

1. Comfort items or something soft against the skin to help keep warm and cosy

Comfortable socks or bed socks
Soft, cosy blanket or quilt – should be lightweight but cosy and warm
A soft wrap or pashmina
Button up pyjamas or nightie with buttons down the front
Slippers
Wheat bag or hot water bottle

2. Non-perfumed skin care items to help with the side effects of radiation therapy and chemotherapy

Lip balm
Foot balm
Hand and nail cream
Moisturisers
Body wash
Soothing mouth wash
Nail polish, nail hardener

3. Practical items to help cope with daily living

A weekly cleaning service or a food delivery service
Massage or pedicure vouchers
A coffee card for the centre where they are receiving treatment
Pre-cooked meals and soups
Information sheets with contact details for local cancer support groups

4. Something to help pass the time during treatment

Books, magazines
A note book or diary to write down questions, feelings and side effects
Small puzzle book and pen
Cross stitch or other craft
Ear plugs or noise cancelling headphones

5. Head wear or head covers to help with hair loss or a sore and sensitive scalp

Beanie
Soft hat
Turban, silk turban
Bamboo sleep caps
Silk pillowcase

6. Food and snacks to help with nausea and side effects such as loss of appetite and taste changes

Boiled lollies
Fruit tingles
Menthol or eucalyptus lollies
Mints
Ginger lollies
Herbal teas
Fresh fruit
A blender for making smoothies and soups

7. Personal touches – Don't forget to make it personal, especially when you can’t be there in person

A personal card or note of hope and support
A funny video or affirmation
A music playlist
A framed photo of family, friends and loved ones
Seedlings to pot and grow
Personal vouchers for transport, cleaning, back rubs or even a shoulder to cry on

If you need support or assistance at any stage of you or your loved one’s cancer diagnosis and treatment, your Icon Cancer Centre care team can connect you with services in Malaysia.

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