Dying Friend

Hand cream, face cream, and tissues. Certainly nothing perfumed. I think the idea of notecards and stamps is excellent.

Lovely ideas
You could take nail polishing items and give her a hand massage as well as a manicure and pedicure.
The most precious gift will be you

I think time is the best gift.

Also a nice wrap that she could have round her shoulders or over her legs when necessary

Whatever you take, try to have a conversation whilst you are there, about things she likes, or misses now she is in residential care.

Then, when you are home, you can put together a box of goodies and memories and a card to say how much you enjoyed seeing her.

Thank you for all these wonderful suggestions. So many good ideas that I may just use more than one of them and fit them all into a 'goody' bag.

Grateful for all my virtual friends and will be sure to let you know how it goes.

there is a brilliant website called 'Not another bunch of flowers' - founded by a cancer patient who discovered flowers were not allowed in her hospital! There are some very thoughtful presents to be found there.

Mission accomplished! Just got back and wanted to share. We had a wonderful visit reminiscing about old times.

My dear friend has lost some weight and seems more frail, but she still looks good despite her condition. We ate, we laughed, took a few selfies and talked a lot about world politics, math exams, old flames, family, friends, our alma mater and even our dearly departed pets.

We had particular fun exchanging 'war' stories about one former Mother Superior. If you were ever confronted by a formidable teacher (or nun) who exacted discipline with a threatening yardstick, then you probably knew her too.

The 'goody' bag turned out to be quite a success! I included a lovely box of fine chocolates, some embossed stationery, a generous tube of Almond scented hand lotion and a zippered cosmetic pouch with 2 lipsticks, 3 shades of powdered blush with brush, a mascara wand and a (sample size) flask of spray cologne.

Even if I don't get another chance to see her, I will look back upon how she was today and have no reason to be saddened.

I agree with maryeliza, not to have too many expectations - A friend of mine died last month, but prior to her death she appreciated conversation, a listening ear, laughter and the freedom to break down and cry and to be tired and left to rest - The photos are a good idea ..

Oh! So glad the visit was a success!

willa45 What a loving friend you are.