DVD players are fairly inexpensive, and your loved one can also use one to watch movies. Many computers have built-in drives that will play these. Why not utilize them to help cancer patients feel connected to the "real world"?
What can you do with a DVD player when you want to cheer up a cancer patient who's physically challenged or limited by treatment side effects? You can:
Make video greetings
Record stories and memories
Share a book
Perform a song, dance, or skit
Record a recital or sports event
Recite poems
Show a favorite pet trick
Take a tour
Many times, family and friends want to give their loved ones something meaningful. A gift of the heart reaches out, beyond the miles. DVD's can be inexpensively made and mailed. If you climb a mountain, why not record a message at the top for your loved one? If you go fishing, why not capture the exciting thrill of reeling in a big one? If you take a drive to see the Christmas lights, why not record the magic of the moment? When you point your camera at what you are seeing, you are sharing the experience with someone who may not have the energy and stamina to get out and about. You're saying that life is still happening and you want your loved one to be a part of it. It gives you something to talk about, to laugh about, to enjoy together.
What's the best part about a really good DVD? Your loved one can share it with other people. Whether it's a grandchild performing a dance or a friend telling a funny story, the moment lives on through the DVD.
Why not be creative? Do you have a relative who does a great impression of master chef Julia Child? Put him or her in an apron and do a silly cooking demonstration. Does a relative have some comical advice on how to handle "difficult" doctors? Or is there an artist in the family? Why not share the latest painting or sculpture? Do you have a singer who can really hit those notes and belt out a tune? Is there a stand-up comic in the family who has a funny routine? Got a pet that has a silly trick or habit?Record the moments to share. It's not about the cancer. Family life is the glue that holds us together through the tough times.
Maybe you had a big snowstorm and got busy with building a snowman with the kids. Did you create a masterpiece? Or a snow village with a crowd of snowmen and snowwomen? Are you heading to a winter carnival, complete with ice carving competitions? Or maybe you're off on a cruise, to the land of tropical trees, gorgeous beaches, and aquamarine waters. Do a little travelogue for your loved one. Share your experiences. It sends the message that you do really care, that you are really thinking of him or her, and that you want to stay connected, even during cancer treatment.
You might be surprised at how easy it is for cancer patients to fall out of contact with family and friends. It's easy to feel forgotten when the phone doesn't ring as often and there's nothing in your inbox or mailbox. Cancer treatment can be very isolating for your loved one. Making the effort to stay connected is important, and caregivers can really help by encouraging the extended circle of family and friends to remain in touch.
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