i have a friend who is newly diagnosed. Money is tight for her so a couple of friends are getting together to make up a care basket, with such things as beanies, moisturiser, diary and of course the all important thermometer. Any ideas that we could add would be appreciated.

How about creating a book of ‘homemade’ vouchers that friends can do to make life easier - eg a friend may offer to clean house, or drive to a place, or gardening etc.

It may sound silly but something a bit glamorous? Perfume, lipstick, a small indulgence. Losing your breast and possibly your hair can feel like the end of any sense of being attractive - it isn’t. A great lipstick is also good for diverting glances away from your vanishing eyebrows!

Understandable that she's scared but hopefully she will get to know the forum and know there's lots of support.Beanies only if she is to lose her hair. I didn't and was feeling guilty because everyone else did. It's a mindset that's fragile as we work our way through it.Take care

Thank you ladies, all great ideas and some I would never of thought of. Will definitely be putting these ideas to good use 💕

Maybe a teddy bear.. I know it sounds silly but I borrowed one of my little boys..i found it helpful to have something to cuddle and talk too that didn't talk back..crazy and childish maybe that's why it helped..he gets to wear my hats and bandanas too!

Ideas please | Online Network

arpie
Member
6 years ago
That is a lovely thing to do for your buddy. Does she like Crossword puzzles or things like that? Something to take her mind off things. I found magazines better than novels - as your concentration is just shot to bits! Take care xx All the best for your friend
Patchworkmum
Member
6 years ago
Thanks Arpie that’s a great idea.
iserbrown
Member
6 years ago
What a lovely idea!

There are some links for her to take advantage of
https://lgfb.org.au

https://www.bcna.org.au/resources/my-care-kit/

Are you aware of her treatment plan? I didn't lose my hair so I didn't need beanies.

Moo goo products in particular their deodorant was suggested as the armpit is sensitive after node removal.

Some say black nail polish helps protect the nails

Take care
Patchworkmum
Member
6 years ago
She sees the oncologist and breast care nurse next week, she’s had scans this week. Not sure what her treatment plan is but pretty sure she has to have mastectomy, three tumours and node involved. Needless to say she’s pretty scared.
iserbrown
Member
6 years ago
Understandable that she's scared but hopefully she will get to know the forum and know there's lots of support.

Beanies only if she is to lose her hair. I didn't and was feeling guilty because everyone else did. It's a mindset that's fragile as we work our way through it.

Take care
Shellshocked201
Member
6 years ago
What a wonderful idea by some caring friends.
Anything to help with dry mouth ( gels from chemist/dentist), aluminium free deodorant, crossword puzzle / word find books, sorbolene moisture cream, some warm bed socks for hospital, or slip on slippers.

Just be there for her, keep checking in on her, cry with her, this is when she will need her friends and family the most.

Wishing your friend all the best, and we are all here anytime. Xx
kmakm
Member
6 years ago
Subscriptions to Netflix/Stan/Amazon Prime if she's a tv watcher.

Lip balm.

Massage voucher to someone who does oncology massage.
Mahaica
Member
6 years ago
Meals frozen ones maybe
jintie
Member
6 years ago
How about creating a book of ‘homemade’ vouchers that friends can do to make life easier - eg a friend may offer to clean house, or drive to a place, or gardening etc.
Afraser
Member
6 years ago
It may sound silly but something a bit glamorous? Perfume, lipstick, a small indulgence. Losing your breast and possibly your hair can feel like the end of any sense of being attractive - it isn’t. A great lipstick is also good for diverting glances away from your vanishing eyebrows!