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Top 10 Gifts for People With Cancer

By Lisa Fayed, About.com

Updated: June 21, 2007

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

Holidays are sometimes difficult when you have a loved one with cancer. You want to give them a gift, but what should you give someone with cancer? Many people make the mistake of buying a medical supply gift like a shower chair, but honestly that is more like a treatment necessity than a gift. Buy a gift that you would buy if your loved one didn't have cancer.

1. Chicken Soup for the Surviving Soul

The Chicken Soup book series is a favorite of mine. True tales of those who survived cancer can be a great inspiration to those with cancer. Chicken Soup for the Surviving Soul is perfect for any cancer patient.

2. Miniature Zen Garden

A zen garden can be the most relaxing activities. It can calm nausea and anxiety. If you have never used a zen garden, you are missing out! You can literally spend hours sifting the sand around in the garden. Plus, miniature zen gardens can be taken to hospitals, sit on bed trays and are comfortable on laps.

3. Geo Mist Color-Changing Fountain Mister

This fountain is so versatile! Instead of adding water, you can add lemon juice or oils for aromatherapy benefits. With the lights off, the changing colors are so relaxing and makes it easier to fall asleep. Great for those with insomnia.

4. Saturday Night Live - 25 Years of Laughs DVD

Laughter really is the best medicine. Though it may not cure cancer, laughter sure can lighten a heavy heart and temporarily take away worry. Who doesn't love SNL, especially the early years?

5. A Million Little Pieces by James Frey

If this book won't get your mind off cancer, I don't know what will. Give the gift of a book that the world won't stop talking about. Order two copies, one for yourself and one for a friend and read it together!

6. Homedics FM-CR Foot Pleaser Ultra Deep Kneading Foot Massager

Everyone should have a foot massager; it is the ultimate stress reliever! I like the Dr. Scholl's because it has heat and it has "toe touch" control, meaning no more bending down to change controls. It's also small and can be taken anywhere.

7. Stress Balls

These are small balls that you can squeeze to relieve anxiety and stress. From the manufacturer - "Whatever the source, this ball fits comfortably in your hand acting as an outlet for general stress and tension, providing a sense of relief. Built to withstand hours of torture, these oversized 2 1/4" balls are constructed with a semi-solid gel surrounded by a smooth Lycra cover."

8. Notebook Computer

This is a rather large gift, but one that will go to good use. Surgeries and general fatigue are part of cancer treatment and can leave a patient to bedrest. Believe it or not, just sitting up to use a computer requires a lot of energy, so why not give the gift of being able to use one in bed or in a recliner? Plus, notebooks are not expensive like they used to be in the past.

9. Chill Buster Socks

These are the most comfortable, warm sock ever! They make them for both men and women, keeping your feet warm without bulk. Great for those winter nights and stays in the hospital.

10. Chill Buster Sport Utility Blanket

This blanket is battery powered and is for outdoor use. Great for sporting events, camping, or any other outdoor activity. It's washable, provides heat for up to 3 hours and the battery is rechargeable.

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