What to Give Someone with Cancer: Thoughtful Gifts & Support Tips for Radiotherapy and Chemotherapy Treatments

We understand that choosing a gift for someone with cancer can feel daunting. You want to lift their spirits, show your support, and be thoughtful—but without accidentally giving something that’s unhelpful or inappropriate for their treatment. Whether they’re having radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or you’re unsure of their treatment, here are some gentle guidelines on what to give (and what not to), along with ways to offer meaningful support.

Everyone is Different

First, remember: cancer isn’t one-size-fits-all. Different people are given different treatments respond differently, both physically and emotionally. Some want visitors and conversation; others prefer quiet rest. Some are open about their diagnosis; others keep it private. The most important gift you can offer is your sensitivity. When in doubt, ask how they’d like to be supported—or simply let them know you’re there. Please be assured that if you choose our Cancer Care Package, there will be no reference to the name of this package or the word 'cancer' in the gift or packaging as we completely understand that some recipients prefer this.

We have created a collection of suitable gifts in our 'Make Your Own Cancer Care Package' range so you can add a gift box or willow hamper basket along with a cardof your choice and select as many gifts as you like. We can then handwrite your gift message for a personal touch, and send direct to the recipient. Next Day for Future date delivery is available.

Gifts for Radiotherapy

What to give:
Radiotherapy often causes fatigue and skin sensitivity in the treated area. Thoughtful gifts include:

• Ultra-gentle skincare: Skin care is tricky as certain ingredients are advised against, but natural, fragrance-free gentle products -such as this unfragranced organic body & handwash-are generally ok.

• Soft natural clothing or scarves or cosy alpaca socks: Particularly useful if the treated area is irritated.

• Relaxation gifts: Such as eye masks, a silk pillow case, herbal caffiene- free teas, or a mindfulness journal or book

• Entertainment: Puzzles, light reads, or mindful colouring books.

What to avoid:

• Heavily fragranced items.

• Heated products like wheat bags near the treatment area.

• Anything that assumes their physical abilities (like fitness gifts) unless you know it suits them.

Gifts for Chemotherapy

What to give:
Chemotherapy can come with a range of side effects like nausea, fatigue, sensitivity to smells, and changes in taste. Consider:

• Nausea-friendly snacks: Ginger biscuits or ginger presse drink, lemon drops, or bland crackers.

• Anti- nausea acupressure wrist bands:to gently help calm a queasy stomach 

• Headwear: Cosy beanies or a silk turban if they’re experiencing hair loss.

• Cosy comforts: Super-soft blankets, warm alpaca socks, or a cosy scarf.

• Practical support: A lip balm, gentle hand salve, unscented hand & body wash, reusable water bottle, mini hand sanitiser, or notebookto keep track of and write notes for hospital visits
  

• Mint gum: Natural, plastic-free gum to relieve a dry mouth

What to avoid:

• Scented candles or strong-smelling bath products.

• Perishable food or alcohol.

• Flowers with pollen (some patients have lowered immunity).

When You’re Not Sure About Their Treatment

If you’re unsure what they’re going through—or you know they’re keeping details private—go for:

• Mood-lifting gifts: Uplifting books, cosy socks, a book of mindful puzzles to distract their thoughts. 

• A little pocket token:somethingetched with words of encouragementthey can carry with them to remind them of your emotional support when they feel a bit wobbly. We have a range of lovely uplifting and encouraging words here.

• Something lovely with no health assumptions: A supportive note that we can handwrite in your card, a beautiful notebook or journal, suggestions to include in a gentle or uplifting playlist.

• Time together: A walk, a cup of tea, a film night in or if you are far away, the promise of a get together in the future that they can look forward to. We have a handy ' golden ticket scratchcard' where we can write your idea of a future day out or 'day out' gift etc for them to look forward to.

Avoid anything that references illness unless you know they’re open to it—some people prefer normality and distractions.

How to Support Emotionally

Gifts are wonderful, but your words and actions matter just as much. Keep these tips in mind:

• Say something—even if it’s simple. “I’m thinking of you” or “I’m here if you need anything” goes a long way.

• Avoid platitudes. “Stay positive” or “Everything happens for a reason” can feel dismissive.

• Keep in touch. A quick message or card can brighten a hard day, even if they don’t always reply.

• Offer specific help. Instead of “Let me know if you need anything,” try “Can I take your child for a day out” or “I’ll walk the dog this weekend.”

Final Thought

When someone is going through cancer, it’s not about the size or cost of your gift—it’s about showing up with love, thoughtfulness, and respect for what they are going through. Whether it’s a soft blanket, a hand cream, or a heartfelt card, your kindness will mean the world. Take a look at our curated Cancer Care Package, or browse our 'Make Your Own Cancer Care Package'collection - we would love to send your sentiments and handwrite your message for a truly personal touch at this emotional time. We understand how the recipient may be feeling and how much a gift like this means to both you as the sender, and the recipient.