I just returned from visiting my mom; she’s having a routine procedure done tomorrow, but is on a clear liquid diet this week. We’re both foodies, and I could only imagine how frustrating it would be to be so restricted with diet. So as she completed some pre-work for the treatment tomorrow, I went over and sat with her. We didn’t do anything too exciting, just watched Jeopardy! and Dr. Oz. And yet, I kept her company, and that was good.
When we have family members or friends who have chronic illnesses, sometimes we can wonder what we can do to help. Simple things, like cooking foods for them or even just going to sit with them or spend time with them are very welcome. Bring flowers, even something from your own yard, or a favorite book to brighten their days. There are things that you can do, that we might even think of as “small”, that mean so much.
In our house, my partner will often do the laundry, and he takes care of the dishes. He’ll ask if I want a Subway when he goes to run errands into town, or just because will bring me a little something. An unprompted shoulder rub can be heaven when the fibromyalgia brings me down. They are small things, but they are wonderful.
If your friend or family member can’t drive, then simply taking him or her out of the house can be a welcome surprise. Driving around parks or past a house whose yard is filled with particularly beautiful flowers can brighten someone’s day.
It’s the little things that will warm someone’s heart for a long time, and they don’t even have to have a chronic illness to appreciate these small, thoughtful gestures.
Don’t know what to do to help your friend or family member, or looking for ideas and support? Then check out communities such as But You Don’t Look Sick.
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