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Dying Friend

(35 Posts)
Humbertbear Thu 25-Apr-19 09:25:36

I have a friend who is frequently, unfortunately, hospitalised and particularly enjoys trays of nuts and dried fruit that she can pick at. Last time I had an operation the most welcome gifts were a puzzle book, a box of fresh fruit and some magazines and journals.
I am sorry about your friend and hope you can have a meaningful visit with her. Best wishes to you both.

maryeliza54 Thu 25-Apr-19 09:19:42

Don’t have too many preconceived expectations of what you hope to achieve - lifting her spirits and cheering her up. If she cries, it doesn’t mean you’ve failed - she may need to do that and talking of old memories may be very bitter sweet. Try and really listen to her - the words and the music behind the words. The idea of the photos is lovely - how she reacts to them will give you a cue as to what she wants from the visit. The fact that she welcomes visitors is very positive. I hope your visit goes well for both of you.

Missfoodlove Thu 25-Apr-19 08:49:36

I love QVC “Tili” boxes £20 delivered and each box comes filled with beautiful cosmetics, some full size and some travel size. The brands are always high end such as Elemis and Rituals. The contents value is usually between £60 and £80.
A lovely treat.

Eglantine21 Thu 25-Apr-19 08:30:46

My husband very much appreciated a set of wildlife dvds, if you know something she is interested in.

It may give you something to watch together if the conversation gets difficult.

mumofmadboys Thu 25-Apr-19 07:56:06

Perfume?

Harris27 Thu 25-Apr-19 07:55:24

Think any photographs would be lovely and again the flowers speak volumes good luck with the visit always hard in this situation.

sodapop Thu 25-Apr-19 07:41:07

Maw's idea of photos is good, maybe with a small plant. You friend might like some hand cream as well.

MawBroonsback Thu 25-Apr-19 07:10:56

If you have any photographs of your schooldays or childhood hometown she might enjoy going through them with you. Is there time to copy them put together a little album? Just reminiscing about old times will be special though.
Not going to be easy for you, but how lovely that you can go to see her.

grannyactivist Thu 25-Apr-19 02:22:21

You are the gift she will delight in willa, but flowers are always welcome too. I find with my care home residents that they cherish cards they are given, so perhaps write her a card to say why you have valued her friendship and leave it for her to read after you’ve left.

willa45 Thu 25-Apr-19 01:49:17

In just a few days, I will be visiting an old schoolmate and dear friend whom I've kept in touch with, but haven't seen in over five years. I've now learned that she isn't expected to live past this summer but that on good days she still enjoys having company. She's now living in a nursing home about three and a half hours of travel away, and this will likely be the last time I see her.

I would like to bring her a small gift, but I'm having trouble coming up with something thoughtful and appropriate.
I'm looking to lift her spirits and cheer her up. Any suggestions will be welcome and much appreciated.