14 Ways To Encourage a Loved One in the Midst of Illness, Treatment or Recovery — Part 2

When it comes to encouraging someone you love in a time of medical suffering, there are no one-size-fits-all ideas. That’s why we’re reaching deep to come up with a variety of ideas that you could use to bless your friend or family member during their difficult time.

There are so many ways to reach out and encourage someone in the midst of a prolonged health crisis—but, of course, the best gifts and gestures are the ones that come from your heart. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

(If you missed Part 1, click here to read it now.)

7. The Giving Heart Pillow

How would you like to send a hug to someone you love but haven’t been able to visit? This heart pillow comes in cream or pink and is made of irresistibly soft yarn. Weighing in at 2 pounds to replicate the feeling of a real hug, this is a gift that’s made to provide comfort. And it comes with a beautiful message that tells your loved one you are thinking of them and cheering them on in love.

Check out the Giving Heart Pillow here. ( I am not affiliated with this site I just loved the idea) 

8. Food delivery

When you deliver a meal, it not only takes the pressure off of the person who isn’t feeling well enough to cook, but provides for everyone else in their home, as well—caretakers who are often stretched thin between medical appointments and extra housework.

A home-cooked meal, delivery from a local restaurant, or gift cards from services like DoorDash and Uber Eats are often greatly appreciated by all.

9. Prayer shawl

Depending on the person you’re reaching out to, this might be one of the most touching gifts you can give, especially if you can make one by hand. Prayer shawls bring comfort and are like a wearable hug. They bring comfort and are often treasured by the recipient.

Read more about prayer shawls, with ideas for getting started. (I am not affiliated with this site)

10. Audible membership or streaming service gift cards

Think Disney+, Pureflix, Amazon Prime, Spotify Premium—for someone confined to their bed, a good book, TV show or podcasts can be a good way to pass the time.

Take it a step further by including a list of your favorites, or print a list of inspiring movies that lift the spirit. You can even recommend a good podcast or sermon to get them started.

11. Snacks

Whether you’re dropping in for a quick visit or putting together a care package to put in the mail, snacks are always welcome. Try a sampling of:

• Cookies

• Fresh fruit

• Fancy charcuterie board (meat and cheese plate)

• A favorite coffee drink

• Ice cream

On that last note, Nada Moo sells some of the best dairy-free ice cream treats—they even have a variety of gluten-free flavors, either shipped or stocked at your local grocery store.

12. Scripture Cards

These printables are perfect for reminding someone in treatment or recovery of God’s great love and sovereign care. The instant download includes 40 passages full of hope and encouragement—print them yourself or have them made at your local printing shop. Use this code for 20% off LISTENINGSHEEPBLOG

13. Bird feeder and seed

If your loved one is recovering or undergoing treatment at home or some other location with access to the outdoors, a bird feeder can be just the thing to lift their spirits—especially if they are animal lovers or the outdoors type who might be missing their time outside.

14. Long-term checking in

This one needs no explanation. After months of struggling with a health crisis, the encouraging visits and cards inevitably taper off. One of the best things you can do for your loved one going through long-term recovery or treatment is set a calendar reminder in your phone to follow up at regular intervals.

I’ve personally learned from two friends with year-long recoveries that, at the beginning, lots of people showed up to help, but as time went on most of them moved on and stopped calling, visiting and helping. One friend still needed help cooking meals even months after coming home from the hospital.

Going beyond your own calendar, why not organize a group of friends or church members who will commit to calling, stopping by and helping around the house for as long as it takes to see them through?

Nobody wants to burden their friends or loved ones by continuing to ask for help for months and months on end; even when they need it the most, they will stop asking. You can love for the long-haul by remembering to check in when they no longer expect it.