*if your Galentine has a chronic illness
It’s the most wonderful time of the year – GALENTINE’S DAY! I had never really been one for Valentine’s Day (despite having been in a relationship for my entire adult life), but when Parks & Recreation made Galentine’s Day a trend in the mid-2000’s, I immediately jumped on board. As far as I am concerned, February 13 is the true highlight of the month.
As someone with chronic illness, I am often asked how friends can be supportive or show they care on days like Galentine’s Day (or any day!). It might seem simple, but sometimes the most basic of gestures is enough to brighten a chronic sufferer’s day or lift their spirits. To make it easy, I am giving you 5 Gracious Gifts for your Galentine.
#1 Plan a movie night or day long series binge
A lot of the times, going out is not an option for chronic illness sufferers. We know the feeling of FOMO all too well because we constantly have to say no to activities we cannot commit to being well enough for. Your Galentine will surely be touched by you showing up in your comfy clothes (or full on PJs) with snacks and a plan to spend the day watching Cheer on Netflix. You likely have plans of doing this alone at some point during the weekend, but by reaching out to your friend, you are showing her that you prioritize spending time together and her health.
#2 Have a no-bake, baking day
This is something I did with two of my girlfriends this weekend. We got together at my friend Helen’s house to make some Valentine’s themed treats – none of which required any baking. We made some really cute Rice Krispies treats and chocolate covered strawberries and Oreo cookies. What is nice about making these kinds of desserts is that they do not take a lot of prep or bake time, which means less standing and work for your Galentine who may not be well enough to stand in front of an oven for hours. Since there was not a tremendous amount of work to be done, there was plenty of time to chat and connect with my friends Simone and Helen. You can check out Helen’s post on our goodies here, and be sure to watch Simone’s YouTube Video and post as well.
#3 Go to a Korean Day Spa
Korean Day Spas are growing in popularity across the country. I personally have been to the Sojo Spa in NJ a few times and love being able to spend time with a friend in this environment. These spas typically have an entrance fee that gives you access to all of the saunas and baths that the spa offers. Depending on your friend’s condition, they may benefit from a soak in an oxidized bath or from a quick chill inside of an Ice Room. Many of these spas offer additional services, with my personal favorite being a reflexology treatment.
#4 Cozy Clothes or Blanket
If you want to get something for your Galentine, I would highly recommend some cozy clothes or a blanket. Most chronic illness warriors spend a lot of time in their lounge wear, so gifting them some silky duds will surely make their day. I personally love any of the soft items found in the Lou & Grey collection and I especially love clothes without tags for my extra-sensitive days. When my fibro flares, the tag at the back of a shirt can drive me insane. Another great line at a lower price point is the Stars Above line at Target. Their clothing and pajamas are unbelievably soft and quite chic. Finally, you can never go wrong with a soft blanket or throw that they can use on the couch – AKA their home base most days.
#5 A personalized, sentimental gift
Chronic illness is an isolating experience. You spend a great deal of time alone: in bed, at doctor’s offices, in the hospital – so little reminders that there are people there to support you are always appreciated. I have always loved photo books or shadow boxes created by friends that I can put up in my room to look at on bad days. Hand-written letters or a thoughtful note can make the difference on a lonely day. Consider creating a photo album or having a photo book printed for your friend. These gifts will be cherished long after Galentine’s Day is over and will do more to lift your friend’s spirit than you could ever know.
There are a million ways to show a sick loved one that you care – what’s important is making the effort to show them your support. To my fellow chronic illness friends – what are some of the most thoughtful gifts you have received? Let me know in the comments below. Wishing everyone a love-filled Valentine’s or Galentine’s this year <3
