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Advice needed - Uncle going through chemo

My uncle was unfortunately diagnosed with non hodgkin's lymphoma and he just started chemo.  He's going to have chemo every two weeks from now until Christmas.  I'd like to bring him something.  Just something small to let him know we're thinking of him.  I thought about making food but I know he's really nauseous.  He's in his early 60's.  I was hoping maybe someone here had a relative/close friend go through this and you might have some advice.  Thanks!
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Re: Advice needed - Uncle going through chemo

  • maybe some puzzle books (crosswords, soduku, etc) for when he is getting the infusion. 

    a comfy lounge outfit for his post treatment days when he feels like a$$ (sweatshirt, slippers, something like that).

    if he is sporty (and has somewhat of a sense of humor) a new insertfavoriteteamhere hat since he may be losing his hair.

    sorry to hear that he is sick.  i hope chemo goes smoothly and kills off that crap. 

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  • ugh!!! I'm so sorry, but he's very lucky to have a kind niece like you.

    I would also get him a small throw blanket or a fleece--they keep the hospitals soooo cold and he's just going to sit there during treatment.  Also, I know that chemo can cause lots of dryness--so, how about some lip salve and some extra moisturizing lotion (like Gold Bond). Frozen meals are helpful, too, like a big batch of soup in smaller serving sizes...that way, it won't take long for him to defrost when his appetite is better.  

    eta: it is going to be getting colder soon, so a knit hat will also help. My MIL wore one in the house even in the summer when she was going through treatment.  

  • I am sorry to hear about this :(  I agree with the other suggestions, particularly about a nice blanket or sweatshirt. Even a nice warm pair of slippers or heavy socks might be an option.  If he has a portable DVD player or laptop, maybe a few new DVDs he can bring with him to the center.  If he likes music, perhaps an iPod shuffle loaded up with some tunes you think he might like so he can bring it with him. 
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  • Thanks, these are all great ideas!
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  • Netflix subscription!  Even if he has one, he can apply it to his existing account. 
  • I am so sorry to hear this Shannon!

    My mom had chemo for non-hodgkins lymphoma once a month from Nov 2010 - March 2011.  She is doing great now and her last two checkups had the all clear!

    What really helped my mom was doing things - running errands, laundry, or even just visiting.  The last thing she needed was more stuff, but she was super tired and weak, so helping her out around the house and even doing some Christmas shopping for her was a big help.

    If she was up to it (which varied week to week) I always bring the kids to visit once a week, which really made her happy :)

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  • sorry to hear this, shannon.  my grandfather has been dealing with non-hodgkins lymphoma for many years now.  things that were most helpful to him were errands and chores, like PP mentioned.  maybe a giftcard to a favorite take-out place that delivers for when his appetite returns.  netflix is a great idea too.

    something cheesy, but thoughtful, might be one of the willow tree statues.  

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  • I'm sorry to hear this Shannon. My uncle had cancer and we were very close. I used to go to his chemotherapy treatments with him at Penn. The rooms were so cold so the blanket was a good idea. A small nice pillow can be helpful as chemotherapy is long. Maybe a notebook for notes from the doctor. Also, a small lunch bag and a reusable water bottle as chemotherapy can dehydrate him. Just calling or visiting and checking in on him will be very helpful. Take Tommy and spend some quality time just chatting with him.
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  • Thanks again for all the suggestions, they're really helpful.  I'm going to go out shopping today and look for stuff.  Cancer sucks so I'm hoping even a small gesture might lift his spirits a bit.

    Eagles, it's nice to hear success stories.  Glad your mom is ok! 

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  • I have nothing to add, but I'll be thinking about you and your uncle. I'm sure a visit or help with household stuff would be appreciated! Could you take over some meals -- maybe individual portions frozen (like pasta sauces, chili, etc.) so he wouldn't have to worry about cooking?
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  • Well, thankfully he is not alone.  My aunt is there for him and one of my cousins still lives at home so he has support at home.  Even though he doesn't have much of an appetite I may still make a few freezer meals for my aunt and my cousin to have because I know they're busy helping him.
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