Gifts for an uncle with cancer?

[Chimichanga]

I will be visiting my uncle this weekend and he is currently going through chemo and radiation for lung and brain cancer.

I'd like to get him a little something while he's either going through treatments or while he's sitting at home.

My sister (his goddaughter) bought him some puzzle books already. One is a math game that he has been able to finish two of already (woo hoo!) I am close with my uncle, but not super close like she is.

My uncle loves sports and he is a very handy guy - so it's killing him that he has to sit around sick. He's very good at math but until recently he hasn't been able to concentrate enough to do even simple adding and subtracting.

I think he uses the books my sister got him while he's getting treatment. I'd like to get him something for home. I don't know if he's got Netflix or if he'd use it (if he can't watch involved movies there's very little he can watch).

Are there any suggestions?

[laura]

Hmm, that's difficult. What is your price range? How about bringing some home cooked, freezer friendly meals with you?

[nic]

How about some books on tape? Or some relaxation CD's?

If he has a favorite sports team you could get him a book or DVD about the team.

I'm sorry to hear your uncle is going through this, sometimes just having someone visit is enough. When my sister was going through chemo she felt some people avoided her, no phone calls, cards, visits so I'm sure he'll be happy to have your company.

[ejs]

* Some sort of Walkman-like thing so he can listen to games while he's at the chemo center.
* People I know who have gone through chemo say that they get really cold during their sessions, so perhaps a nice blanket or sweater.

Ideas for home:
* A subscription to Sports Illustrated.
* DVD showing sports bloopers.
*

[Chimichanga]

Hmm... a blanket would be nice. i've heard that as well - chemo patients get cold during treatments. I'll see what I can find. I'm sure there's some cute things I can find him.

I'm sorry I forgot to comment on budgets. Ideally less than $50, but if it's teh *perfect* gift I'd go higher.

[daydreamer]

Mom always enjoyed a blanket and a neck pillow. I know audio books are nice. If chemo is affecting his sight, a larger watch or one that beeps is also great. If he likes them & can have them, a milk shake along with a visit is always the best. You just can't replace visits as stated above.
At home, insulated pitchers (like those in hospitals) are wonderful. Mom's keeps her watch cold while I'm alway at work with no problem and she doesn't have to attempt a trip to the kitchen. Bananas & PB crackers are great bedside snacks.
One final thought, he is going to like whatever you give because he loves you.
The gift is just another expression of love.

[Chimichanga]

Thanks for everything, everyone. :)

I ended up getting him a green fleece blanked - it's a big one - that he can wrap around him or just snuggle with on the couch. I also got him a few do-rags/head scarves. He said he wanted some so DH and I got him three.

I also made some cookies - he and my aunt love my chocolate chip and oatmeal cookies. So I gave them two dozen cookies. He ate two right away. He said he has to put on 20 pounds and has been eating like crazy (they cut out Mexican food while on chemo and my uncle said he couldn't bear not eating it any longer). :)

He was in such good spirits - it was great to see him. :)