| I often get asked for ideas on how to encourage | | | | 1. Nightcaps: homemade or purchased |
| female friends going through cancer treatment. | | | | This is a wonderful gift for your friend if her |
| Here are some ideas that I believe you will find | | | | treatment will cause her to lose her hair. Be sure |
| helpful. | | | | the fabric is soft and washable and that any |
| First of all...be specific. A willingness to help in any | | | | elastic is covered and not too tight. Ask her what |
| way she needs is often overwhelming. She may | | | | pretty color or pattern she would like if you are |
| not have the energy to address and think through | | | | making the nightcap...or surprise her! |
| what all her needs are. Take the time to look at | | | | 2. Nightgowns or robes that open in the front |
| her home, family, medical and social needs. Then | | | | Ease in dressing is extremely important both |
| give her a small list of things you can either do or | | | | during any hospital stays and once she is home. |
| help with. | | | | 3. Extra moisturizing body lotion |
| Second, if you have a personal care skill such as | | | | Remember to keep the ingredients fragrance free |
| hairdressing, manicuring or massaging, offer your | | | | and organic if possible |
| services for a session free of charge. Come to | | | | 4. A natural bristle hair brush that has extra soft |
| her home if at all possible. Any of these things will | | | | bristles |
| delight her! All of us know there is nothing like a | | | | Again, this is if your friend will lose her hair with |
| little pampering when we don't feel our best. | | | | treatment. She (or you) can lightly brush her head |
| If your time is limited or you live a distance from | | | | to stimulate healthy new growth AND it feels |
| your friend...the following list of items can be given | | | | great! |
| individually or in a lovely gift basket. | | | | 5. Purchase a copy of Beauty During the Cancer |
| It is wise to choose lotions and potions that are | | | | Journey |
| fragrance free since many cancer patients have a | | | | It is a simple read where she will find support and |
| low tolerance to odors during treatment. You | | | | help in beauty related issues |
| might also want to ask a family member if she | | | | 6. Lastly, how about purchasing a beautiful |
| has any skin sensitivities or allergies. Include | | | | bouquet of silk flowers to match the colors of her |
| organic products as much as possible. Because | | | | home? |
| they do not contain chemicals and preservatives | | | | She won't have an allergic reaction to them and |
| they will be better tolerated. | | | | no one will have to remember to water them! |