Care package ideas ????

[BreastFriend]

I just went thru chemo, surgery and radiation. Now my sister has it! I want to send her a little care package and cannot remember what I needed! She has lots of hats....could I get some suggestions on a little something I could send her that would cheer her up!???? Thanks Sue

[koolmom]

moisturizer, lotions, smell goods, essential oils to go in a bath, earrings, make-up, eyebrow pencil, lipstick, books, coloring books, crayons, crossword puzzle books, find a work, etc.

Just a few things that made me feel good.

[tousled1]

Susie,

One thing I would recommend you put in the care package is Biotene toothpast and Biotene mouthwash. Both are very gentle and will help to prevent any mouth sores. It's also good for dry mouth. Also some aloe vera for her to put on her skin when she goes through radiation -- keeps the skin from burning so much. A daily planner or calendar that she can carry in hr purse to keep track of all the appointments she will have. And there's nothing better than a care bear - the one's you make yourself. With these when you put the hart in the bear you make a wish. My grandson got one for me and I love it. He won't tell me what the wish was that he made.

[BreastFriend]

Thanks for your input. My sister lives in a trailer in a scrap yard with no running water, heat or place to cook. She is like a street person. The family is trying to get her into a nursing home. I know she used to have pierced ears, not sure if she does now. I stamp and scrapbook, so I really like the crayons and book, but I have a feeling she will just give them to her grandkids.

You have made me *think*. I was thinking about cup of soups packages, and the lotions and sanitizers. Thanks so much. Sue

[BreastFriend]

I received lots of stuffed toys, so I will add this! Thanks Sue

[janet/FL]

I would suggest a hot water bottle or something she can use to keep warm. Warm, cuddly blankets if she can't heat the water. I took a hot water bottle with me everywhere and filled it from hot water faucets where ever I was. I was cold all the time. Individual packets that can produce hours of heat may also work. (The kind that hunters, etc. use)

[Believe51]

Nice idea. How about sending some Tangerine or Citrus Altoids, or lemon drops for that nasty metal taste that you get in your mouth?? Ed likes the Altoids best as it rids his mouth better than whatever else he has tried. Ed also found comfort in a special blankie that my Mom made; yes, she tends to spoil him a tad. I know myself that I cannot live nor stay organized without a medical binder to keep track of tests, results, appointments, medications, contacts, etc. Maybe a journal, some people do not like to keep a written account of happenings on this journey but I know friends who could not live without them, me being one who needs my journal (someday it may help someone). Just rambling on. Sorry that you and sis have to fight this battle. Hang tough. Sending prayers and hugs your way!! >>Believe51

[BreastFriend]

Here is what I put together:

Regifted everything: One little brown soft cancer society bear, pgs and slippers, hat, gloves, scarf that match, shirt and hat that match, black stretchy pants, celine dion cologne in a silk baggie (I have lots of these), lotions, powder and puff, hand sanitizer, beautifully covered journal and matching beaded pen (I make these), hard cinnamon candy, necklace and earrings, homemade beaded ring, large hooded quilted lightweight jacket (she lives in CA), homemade crochets cap (very stylish), my favorite blue eyelet head scarf. Thanks for all of your responses! Sue

[Believe51]

Wait until she opens her package, she is going to find the contents very helpful in keeping her organized and comfortable. What a sweet sister you are!! Wanted to let you know I love your picture, that smile says a thousand words. Continued luck with this journey and keep us posted on sis' reation to her special treats>>Believe51

[fauxgypsy]

I think one of the most useful things I had was a purse sized calendar so that I could keep up with my appointments. I could just pull it out and make sure no one was scheduling on top of anyone else. I used the one the Herceptin folks sent me. That and a bag big enough to carry everythingin, books, magazines and a spriral notebook that I used for keeping track of any questions I had. One with apocket is good so you have somewhere to all the paperwork you get, lab results, etc.

Leslie