Get Well Ideas

Saying just the right thing

When a friend or loved one faces serious illness, it can be difficult to know what to say. Especially if treatment will be long-term, physically or emotionally draining, or have an uncertain outcome. Greeting cards can provide one way to express concern and offer meaningful support.

Things to consider when looking for the right card to offer support:

• What kind of friendship do you have with the person? Are you long-term friends or just settling in to a relationship?
• How is the friend handling her illness? Does she feel so scared and overwhelmed that she needs a quiet listener, or is she a person who would like you to help take her mind off the situation for a while?
• Are you comfortable using humor with this person? Or, do you have a more serious relationship? If humor is the natural way you relate, send her funny cards to lift her mood and reassure her that despite all the changes, your relationship is the same. If you take a more serious approach, warm cards of support just letting her know that you're thinking of her can make a difference.
• Most importantly, remember to treat the person as you always did. Their illness is a condition, not who they are.

Examples of what to say:

• Here's my phone number again. I'm a good listener.
• I'm sorry, and I'm here.
• I'm in your cheering section. I always wanted to be a head cheerleader!
• I'm the Casserole Queen. And this Royal Highness can also drive vanpool and wash dishes.
• Sometimes when you feel a little weak, a friend can remind you of just how strong you are. I believe in you.