Christmas is a magical and joyful time of year that goes by too fast. However, for those who have to spend Christmas preparing and recovering for surgery, the holidays may seem endless. There are many creative Christmas gifts for patients who are going through the breast reconstruction journey. If they can’t make it to the Christmas celebrations, bring Christmas to them!
Although everyone’s breast reconstruction journey is unique, being prepared can help them feel more at ease. From phase 1 surgery to recovery, the process can take around 6 weeks. Because of this, we have created a list of products to help individuals across all aspects of surgery, including what you’ll need in the hospital as well as post-surgical clothing.
Here is our list of must-have items for breast reconstruction surgery and recovery:
For the Hospital
- Soft Blanket: Cozy blankets can help your loved one relax and being comfortable can decrease the ‘fight or flight’ part of one’s nervous system.
- Eye Mask: As we know hospitals run around the clock, so it can be difficult to get the needed rest without a little help blocking out the bright lights and activities around them.
- Cozy Slippers: Slippers are an underrated necessity and offer great protection for the cold hospital floor. Look for soft, fleece slippers with grip that are easy to put on so patients don’t have to bend over to adjust them. Machine washable slippers are always a good option.
- Book: If you know what they like to read, a book makes the perfect gift and can help take their mind off things. Reading can help pass the time and make sleepless nights more bearable.
For the Home
- Button Down Pajamas and/ or Loungewear: Comfortably loungewear is essential! Look for items with a loose fit, front closure, and additional pockets for drains. Patients are usually not prepared for how uncomfortable drains are and a post-surgery robe can help alleviate some of this discomfort.
- Flap Reconstruction Bra: A post-breast reconstruction surgery bra is a wonderful gift. It may feel overwhelming to pick one out so a gift card to a post-surgery store gives your friend something to look forward to!
- Cleaning Service: Even under the best circumstances, maintaining a clean and organized house can be difficult. When you are recovering from surgery, it becomes significantly more challenging. Hiring a cleaning crew to come by and help with dishes, laundry, and other household chores is a great gift.
- Prepared Meals or Grocery Delivery: A person recovering from surgery needs to eat well in order to maintain their strength. However, they most likely won’t feel up to shopping or cooking for themselves. You can place a grocery order for delivery and get it sent to them or purchase some freeze and reheat meals.
Are we missing any of your favorite items? Leave them in the comments below to share and encourage others to help make a difference in your loved one’s life.
“Set realistic, attainable goals after your surgery. Your body is going to feel different now than it did before surgery. If you are doing it simply to lose weight or get back into a certain dress or pant size you may be setting yourself up for failure. Reset your compass.”
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Thank you so much for sharing this with us!
December 16,2022
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Cough drops, lip balm, robes with pockets for drains, puzzles, rocks with paint sticks, a lap pillow to put under your seatbelt…these are a few of our favorite things!!
Rose’s House
December 16,2022