Caring for a loved one diagnosed with cancer can feel helpless, especially when you live far apart. The sheer distance means that you cannot provide the hands-on support you want to provide as you witness them enduring grueling treatments and emotional distress. However, there are still many ways you can uplift them and show them that you care.
We’ve compiled a list of some of the best ideas for showing your loved one you’re there for them without physically being there for them.
Next Meal’s on Me!
Remember the days of dropping off a “feel better” lasagna or pie at a family member’s house? One perk of living in the age of technology is the ability to have food delivered from wherever you want, almost whenever you want. Uber Eats and DoorDash (to name just a couple services) take the work out of meal prep and allow your loved ones favorite meal to be delivered right to their front door.
Not only does this simple gesture show how much you care; You’re also giving them a night off from washing dishes. This is a total win-win situation!
Send a Care Package
Receiving a care package out-of-the-blue can mean the world to someone feeling isolated. Include goodies they would like or general “pick-me-up” items such as paperback books, a gift card for online items such as ebooks/games, or even delicious chocolate chip cookies.
Want to make it extra special? Think up a specific theme and buy accordingly. Maybe the theme is “Comfort” and you include hot chocolate mix or tea, a mug, and a blanket. Or a “Self-Care” theme may include some face masks, lotion, and nail polish. Your options are endless! Here are a few of our favorite self care items! For cancer paients, chemo care packages are always a thoughtful and loving way to show your support. View our Care Package Guide for many more ideas!
Send Something Silly
Not all your gifts need to be practical. Instead, try sending something that will align well with their sense of humor. For example, keep an eye out for funny pictures, stories, or comics to text or email. Maybe consider having a gag gift or humorous book shipped to them. Seriously, how happy would you be to receive a smiling poop emoji pillow or a book filled with angry/adorable cats in the mail?
Schedule a Regular Call Time
Studies have shown those who live alone tend to feel lonelier in the evenings. If you can, schedule a regular call time on specific days to touch base, see how they’re doing, or just see if they need anything. If your loved one is going though chemotherapy treatments, you may want to call or facetime during their treatments to provide moral support without actually being with them.
Binge a TV Show Together
Do you have a complete and utter love of baking competitions? Is there someone in your family or friend’s circle who also shares your love of competitive baking? Then hop on the phone and hit the play button! Maybe even consider inviting other family members or friends to join you on a Zoom call. Now it’s a party!
Read a Book Together
Just hearing a family member or friend’s voice can be a huge comfort. Instead of calling to just chit-chat, why not try reading a book aloud? You can choose to either take turns if you both have the same paperback/ebook. Since reading aloud is not everyone’s cup of tea, being the designated listener is great as well. You’ll find this a relaxing way to bond and just enjoy one another’s company at a distance.
Communicate the Old Fashioned Way
Letter writing is making a total comeback. Nothing beats the feeling of receiving a handwritten letter in the mail. Plus, if you send a letter, chances are high you’ll soon find yourself tearing open an envelope addressed to you.
To Sum Up...
Although there is physical distance between you and your loved one, it doesn’t have to leave anyone feeling mentally or emotionally wanting. We sincerely hope this post has given you some great ideas for showing TLC to your family and friends.
What tips do you have for showing love from a distance? Please share in the comments below.