10 Thoughtful Gifts for a Loved One Recently Diagnosed with Cancer
Receiving a cancer diagnosis can be an overwhelming and emotional experience. For friends and family, it can be hard to know how to offer support in a meaningful way. One of the most thoughtful gestures you can make is to give a gift that brings comfort, care, and encouragement during their journey. Whether it’s a practical item for treatment days or a token of love and inspiration, here are 10 thoughtful gifts for a loved one recently diagnosed with cancer from our founder and ovarian cancer survivor Allie!
Chemotherapy Care Package
A care package filled with essential items can make long treatment days a little easier. Portt’s Chemotherapy Care Packages, available in three sizes, include comforting essentials like cozy socks, inspirational greeting cards, and other thoughtful items that bring warmth and encouragement. This is a great way to send love all in one box.
Gift Cards for Streaming Services
Treatment days and recovery often involve long periods of rest, and having access to entertainment can help pass the time. A gift card to a streaming service like Netflix, Hulu, or Spotify will give your loved one access to movies, shows, or calming music while they relax. A friend of mine gifted me a three month subscription to a service I did not already subscribe to as i was starting treatment and it was great to have access to shows I hadn't seen before!
Mindfulness Coloring Books, Paint by Numbers or Other DIY Kits
Coloring books designed for adults can offer a calming, meditative activity during treatment or recovery. Pair it with a set of colored pencils or markers, and your loved one will have a soothing way to pass the time while relaxing their mind. Or opt for a modern paint by numbers kit for something a little different. I love the kits from Australian-based Paint Like Frida! A DIY kit is a fun option for something to do while taking it easy.
Port-Accessible Apparel
Comfortable clothing designed for easy port access is a game-changer for those undergoing chemotherapy. Portt’s Port-Access Tank Top and Port-Access Long Sleeve Top offer discreet access to a chemo port without sacrificing style. Available in soft, high-quality fabrics, these tops ensure your loved one stays comfortable while keeping their sense of style intact. And now you can add a personalized message to Portt's shirts through custom embroidery. This small but meaningful detail can be a source of encouragement throughout treatment.
Inspirational Journals
Journaling can be a therapeutic outlet for expressing emotions and thoughts. Gift a beautiful, inspirational journal that encourages reflection and mindfulness. Pair it with a set of pens or markers to make the journaling experience even more enjoyable. I love the journals from Promptly Journals. They come in a vareity of colors and have both blank or themed journals!
Socks with a Message
Warm, cozy socks can bring comfort during treatment days, and a pair with a meaningful message can add an extra layer of support. Portt’s "One Round at a Time" Socks and other designs feature embroidered messages that remind your loved one of their strength and perseverance, perfect for staying warm while feeling uplifted.
Self-Care Skincare Products
Chemotherapy can be tough on the skin, making it important to offer skincare that soothes and protects. Look for fragrance-free, hypoallergenic products like moisturizers, lip balms, and gentle cleansers designed for sensitive skin. We love La Roche-Posay's Skin Affected by Cancer line.
Tote Bags for Treatment Essentials
A stylish, spacious tote bag is a practical gift for carrying all the essentials needed for chemotherapy appointments. Portt’s "Find the Good" Tote Bag is both durable and inspirational, making it perfect for keeping personal items like books, snacks, or a tablet organized and easily accessible.
Aromatherapy and Essential Oils
Aromatherapy can provide relaxation and emotional support during stressful times. Essential oils like lavender, chamomile, and peppermint are known for their calming and soothing effects. Pair a set of oils with a diffuser for an easy and thoughtful gift. My favorite are the essential oil towelettes by Happy Spritz. They're perfect for on the go or tossing in your bag to have on hand when you might need a little calm.
Books That Uplift
Sometimes, the right book can provide the encouragement needed during difficult times. Choose an inspiring memoir or a collection of uplifting essays to help your loved one find hope, strength, and courage throughout their treatment. Or my go to is often a light, fun fictional novel that helps transport me somewhere else, often the coast. I love to browse suggestions from Reese's Book Club to find my next read!
Choosing a gift for someone facing cancer is about more than the item itself—it’s about offering care, comfort, and emotional support during a challenging time. With these thoughtful gift ideas, you can provide your loved one with a little extra warmth and encouragement as they navigate their cancer journey.
Explore more supportive and stylish gift options on weareportt.com, and show your loved one you’re with them every step of the way.