Get well post surgery gift?

[jnettie]

So, my boss had hip replacement surgery a few weeks ago. She'll be out until March. I want to get her something, but I've never had major surgery. What would be a good thing to get someone who is bedridden for over a month?

Just so you know, she's my boss, but she was once my teacher and also a good friend now. I invited her to my wedding. It's not a sucking up gift, it's a gift to show I care because she's been really good to me over the years.

[tenofcups]

Something for her to do during all that time would probably be the most welcome. I don't know her taste (and what her physical limitations will be), but some ideas are:

books, magazines, jigsaw puzzles (if she'll be able to sit up), crossword and other kind of brain puzzle books or magazines, videos of movies, needlepoint, brainteaser books, a subscription to netflix...

Of course, some standards are always welcome: flowers, chocolates, cookies or other kind of food basket.

Does she have someone to cook for her at home? If not, maybe some meals sent in?

I've also sent nightgowns to a couple of people after various surgeries. To one friend, I sent a pair of fuzzy slippers and a sexy nightgown with a note that one was for while she in the hospital and the other for when she was feeling better! I sent a comfy, but pretty, nightgown to another friend who had surgery.

[KrissyCat7]

I agree that books, magazines, movies, anything that can be used or done while being in bed would be great.

I also second the food idea. How about a casserole, soup, or lasagna that can be frozen and reheated?

[chrisinluv]

My absolute favorite book to give people recovering is A Year in Provence by Peter Mayle. It is an easy read, and the beautiful portraits of France and food he creates makes one yearn to get well, so they can travel! If they express that they enjoyed it, it's always nice to give them the two follow-ups as well.

Here's a link to it at Amazon (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0679731148/102-3848163-8270520?v=glance&n=283155)


Does she have pets? If so, get her a book about how to teach a dog simple little tricks.

My mom does the sweetest thing for her neighbor, how is elderly and bedridden much of the time. She regularly goes to the library and checks out books for her to read. Picking up and dropping off books are great excuses for a visit, which is what most of us want if we aren't in agony and pain from surgery.

Anything to keep her hands and mind busy is great. The New York Times puts out an annual crossword book that can be engrossing for those who like crosswords. In 2003, they came out with The New York Times Ultimate Crossword Omnibus (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0312316224/qid=1139529510/sr=2-1/ref=pd_bbs_b_2_1/102-3848163-8270520?s=books&v=glance&n=283155): 1,001 Puzzles from The New York Times. It's the mother of all crossword books, IMO. :p

Also, consider giving her gift certificates to nearby restaurants that deliver. Besure to enclose a current menu with the card/certificate. Also, DVDs or videos, if you know what kind of movies she likes, or if she likes a certain television show, find a 'season of' DVD of it.

[jnettie]

Thanks! Great ideas!

Well, she has a husband and 3 boys, but that doesn't mean anyone can cook. ;) I know she's into healthy and organic stuff in a big way.

The woman's a workaholic, and she brought a laptop to work from home...maybe sending a book would help her slow down.

Keep 'em coming!

[laura]

A bunch of friends and I just put together a gift basket for a friend. We included: comfy PJs/loungewear, pair of Karen Neuberger slipper socks, lavender 'relaxation' pillow, 3 magazines, a book, a DVD, 'fun stuff' which for her was some Sephora goodies, and some snacks that she enjoys. If I lived near her, I probably would have taken a home cooked meal, too - or at least a hot meal prepared by the supermarket. ;)

ETA: We also considered a Netflix GC, which could be good for the family.

[jnettie]

Thanks!

I believe I'm leaning toward some pjs and a book. I love pjs...and I think everyone could use some new comfy pjs now and again!