What to get my sister after her mastectomy?!
Question:
What to get my sister after her mastectomy?
My sister has imflammatory breast cancer, she has finished her chemo and is having a double mastectomy Monday and her lymph nodes in her armpits removed. I can't be there with her but would like to send something. Has anyone gone through this? Is there something that would have made your recovery more comfortable?
Answers:
If you go for the manicure route, remind the person doing it to not cut your sisters cuticles. With the removal of the lymph nodes, she's at risk for lymphedema now. ;) You might think about getting her a medic alert bracelet so medical professionals know not to take her blood pressure or give her shots in her arm, etc.
The one thing I used a lot right after my lumpectomy was one of the big pillows that you get to prop you up in bed so you can watch tv. It was a lifesaver. A cup with a good secure lid so she does not have to sit up all the way to get a drink. A padded shoulder strap for the seatbelt in the car when she does feel up to going out again. (My MIL actually made me one and it made a huge difference!)
I think one of the sweetest gifts I got right after my surgery and just as I started chemo was from a group of my best friends. They got together and sent me a dozen daffodills with a stuffed teddy bear from the American Cancer Society. I cried when I saw the flowers and the bear went with me to all of my treatments. I still tear up thinking about it because everytime I look at that bear I'm reminded of the people who love me. :)
Most of all, just keep in constant contact with her. Let her know you are thinking of her and you care about her. When it all first happens it seems like everyone you've ever met is coming out of the woodwork to wish you well and send you a card or give you a call...then a few months down the road, you hear very little from them because they don't really realize all that you are still going through. It's going to be a long process for her. I'll be keeping the both of you in my prayers.