Send a pet to visit a patient in the hospital.
When in the hospital, a patient often has attention from doctors, nurses, therapists and nutritionists all buzzing around at any given time. There are also periods when time drags, and the patient can feel alone. While the usual "Get Well" cards are nice, a patient appreciates something unique that is sent to brighten a hospital stay.
Send a Pet
According to The Stroke Network, "Regardless of the nature of their illness, it has been demonstrated that hospitalized patients can benefit tremendously from contact with a beloved pet." Many of today's hospitals recognize the healing value of allowing dogs and cats into hospitals. What started as having service animals visit has now expanded into allowing a patient's pet to visit if sensible guidelines are met. A unique and very special gift you can send to your friend in the hospital is to arrange for yourself or someone familiar with the animal to take her pet for a hospital visit. While this may be a one-time visit, if the patient remains in the hospital for a longer period of time, several visits might be in order. Sending a pet offers a unique gift of healing and hope.
Send Food from "Outside"
While some seem to like hospital food, many do not because the food often has little taste. A unique gift to send a hospital patient is the gift of food from outside. You do need to check beforehand with the doctor, nurses and/or the dietitian about dietary restrictions on the patient, but friends and family often are allowed to bring in special treats or complete meals. You might be able to order up a favorite food to be delivered to your friend in the hospital. Or, if something you make at home is a favorite, bring a plate for the patient. You can also purchase a gift coupon or card to enclose with a "Get Well" card so the patient can order food as desired. Do not try to sneak in foods or treats not allowed by the nutritionist or doctor, and make sure patient is able to eat the food you bring, assisting if needed.
Send a Plant
As bright and encouraging as flowers can be to a patient in a rather dull hospital room, flowers do not last, and some patients receive an overflow of flowers. Instead of sending one more vase of flowers, send the gift of a plant. A plant may need watering now and again, but it will outlast the hospital visit. Package the plant with a cuddly stuffed animal. Even the toughest of guys can't resist an animal that may remind them of their favorite dog, horse or other favorite pet.
Send a Card Story
A unique gift to send to a hospital patient is a continuing story. Get together with a group of friends, and write a story of encouragement or a nonsense story to make the patient laugh. The idea is for each person to write a portion of the story on a "Get Well" card before sending all of the cards to the friend in the hospital. The patient has to read each card for the whole story. (Make sure to number the envelopes and explain the process in the first card.) You can also send a card filled with jokes and fun facts each day to brighten up your friend's stay.
Tags: hospital patient, friend hospital, gift send, unique gift, your friend, gift send hospital, hospital visit
