The Ultimate Gift Guide For Individuals Experiencing Cancer

Written By Breanna Bortner

Hello & welcome!

When I was diagnosed with breast cancer in July 2023, my world was flipped upside down with a single phone call. But amid the uncertainty, fear, and overwhelming emotions, I was blessed with an outpouring of love and support. I received messages, cards, and surprise gifts at my doorstep, each one arriving at a time when I needed it most. I remember reading each card and crying, and unwrapping gifts and thinking: “oh, the kindness of people”. 

I’ve kept a running count on my website, and to date, I’ve received 107 cards from loved ones. Each time I opened my mailbox to find a message of hope (instead of a medical bill or appointment reminder) I was reminded that I was loved by many. These simplest of gestures brought me twinkles of light in an otherwise very dark time.

In the weeks and months that followed my diagnosis, I realized how powerful a small act of kindness can be. Even a simple “I’m thinking of you” text could help brighten my day. Now that I am officially 1 year cancer free (YAY!), I want to pay it forward. 

I’ve created this guide to make it easier to offer thoughtful support to people you know and love going through their own cancer journey. Whether gift-giving is your love language or you're new to supporting someone through cancer, this guide makes it easy to choose thoughtful and practical gifts.

Whatever you choose, this guide will help you show up for someone in their time of need, just as so many people did for me.

Cozy Comforts

Let’s be honest - cancer patients will be spending a lot of time in bed, on the couch, and in the hospital. Here are some items that can help them stay comfortable and cozy.

  • Cardigan

  • Port Friendly Tops

  • Post-Surgery Clothing

  • Cute Sets

    • Lightweight fabric is best as many breast cancer patients will be in menopause and experiencing hot flashes

  • Bath Robe

  • Sweatshirts

  • Blankets

  • Brave Beautiful Boobies Merch

    • Click here to shop

    • Designed by me & my amazing friend

    • Created not only to support cancer research but provide joy to those impacted by it!

inspiring reads

Books can offer both optimism and a welcome distraction. Listed are some of my favorites that guided me through my own cancer journey.

Treatment essentials

When treatment gets tough - these items can make a world of difference.

  • Tote Bag

  • Cold Therapy Socks and Gloves

  • Coloring Books

  • Sticker Art

  • Activity Books such as crosswords, word search, or suduko

  • Journals

  • Snacks

    • Ask them what they have been craving or liking lately, taste and preferences do change often throughout treatment!

  • Bible Verses

    • I had a friend print out and laminate bible verses related to healing that I would read during treatment.

Wellness Wonders

Boost their well-being with items that promote relaxation, hydration, and self-care. When choosing wellness gifts opt for organic, fragrance-free and/or hypoallergenic options.

  • Insulated Water Bottle

  • Herbal Teas

  • Essential Oils or Diffusers

  • Electrolyte Drinks or Powders

  • Nausea Drops/Ginger Chews

  • Natural, Non-Toxic Products: My favorite natural products are from Natura Culina and Juniper Apothecary!

    • Chapstick

    • Lotion/Moisturizers

  • Soft Bristle Toothbrush

  • At-home Spa Items

creative escape

Crafts and DIY projects can be a great way to keep busy and relax during treatment.

  • Lego Sets

  • Jewel Art

  • Paint by Color Art

  • Macrame Kit

  • Puzzles

Gift Cards galore

Sometimes, the best gift is the freedom to choose! Gift cards to their favorite stores or restaurants can let them pick out something they love.

  • Groceries

  • Gas

  • Meal Delivery

homemade with love

Homemade gifts are extra special. Use your own talents to create personalized gifts that come straight from the heart.

  • Blankets

  • Art Work

  • Scarves

  • Jewelry

  • Supportive Videos

the gift of time

Gift’s don’t have to be tangible. If you have an open heart, a reliable source of transportation, or some time on your hands - offer up the gift of time to support someone in need.

  • Offer to run errands

  • Keep them company during treatment

  • Drive to and from appointments

  • Helping around the house

    • Laundry, cleaning, meal prep, and yard work are all great things to help out with if they become too much

  • Helping with their children or pets

  • Watch a funny movie together

    • I did this with friends virtually when either they were not feeling well or I was feeling unwell and getting together in person was not an option

  • Homecooked meals

    • Some of my favorite meals people brought for me during treatment were stuffed peppers, chicken noodle soup, and chicken pot pie!

  • Organize a support network

    • You can use your gift of time to coordinate visits, check-ins, or meal delivery to ensure your loved one is consistently supported. This can help to take a lot of stress off the person as they won’t need to worry about managing multiple people offering help. Setting up a MealTrain or GoFundMe are both great ways to rally the support!

Gifts to avoid for cancer patients

While all gifts have good intentions, it’s best to avoid these types of gifts!

  • Fragranced Items

    • Highly scented products, such as candles or lotions, can be overwhelming for those undergoing cancer treatments, especially when they're experiencing nausea. Chemotherapy can alter a person’s sense of smell which makes fragrance and scent very intense.

  • Hair Products

    • During cancer treatment, many individuals face hair loss or thinning. For this reason, it's best to avoid gifting hair products or accessories.

  • Beanies, Wigs, and Other Hair Coverings

    • While these items can be helpful, it’s important to ask the person directly what they prefer. For instance, during my own treatment, I couldn’t wear hats or headbands due to the restrictions of cold capping. It's always a good idea to check with the person and find out if any of these items resonate with them.

  • Fuzzy Socks

    • While fuzzy socks can be cozy, many cancer patients have enough pairs. Additionally, those experiencing treatment-related symptoms like hot flashes or night sweats may not find them practical.

  • Raw, Undercooked, or Spicy Foods

    • Patients with a weakened immune system need to avoid raw or undercooked foods, as they can pose health risks. It’s a good rule of thumb that if you cannot eat something while you are pregnant, you also cannot eat it during active cancer treament when your immune system is suppressed. Additionally, super spicy foods may not be suitable, especially if they are on steroids, which can already cause heartburn and digestive issues.

  • Time Sensitive Events or Giftcards

    • Gift cards are great, but be mindful of expiration dates. Cancer patients often live day to day, and pain or treatment schedules may interfere with using time-sensitive gifts, like massages or event tickets. It's more considerate to offer flexible or open-ended options that can be enjoyed when the time is right.

  • Sad Movies or Books

    • While a thoughtful gesture, sad movies or books may not be the best choice. Cancer treatment can be mentally and emotionally exhausting, and it’s important to offer uplifting or inspirational content that provides comfort and positivity.

  • Supplements

    • Even if its “healthy” or “good for you” cancer patients are monitored closely and cannot incorporate new things into their diet without physician approval. Since supplements and trendy powders can interact with treatments and other medications, its best to avoid them as gifts.

Supporting someone through cancer is a deeply personal and impactful way to show you care. Whether it’s a thoughtful gift, a kind message, or simply offering your time, your gestures can make all the difference in helping someone feel less alone during a challenging journey. The love and support I received during my own experience meant the world to me, and I hope this guide helps you provide the same comfort and encouragement to others. 

Remember, it’s not about the size of the gesture, but the thought and love behind it.

Sending your loved one healing light for their journey!

xo,

Breanna

P.S. If you received a gift you loved and think others would love it too, send me a message and I will add it to this list <3

This resource page was last updated on April 1st, 2025.

Breanna Bortner
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