[Podcast #261] How to Care for a Caregiving Friend

Brave Writer Podcast

Chances are someone you know will have a sick child hospitalized at some point. In this Brave Writer podcast episode, Melissa explains how you can best support that parent and caregiver. Melissa herself has had two of her kiddos hospitalized so her suggestions come from lived experiences.

First, Melissa discusses the practical physical items you can bring to a caregiver in the hospital. She also describes some digital gifts that you can send. Then she shares what little acts of service you can do: doing the laundry, lending an ear, and taking care of the siblings of the hospitalized child.

Sometimes caregivers are so overwhelmed or shy that they don’t know what to ask for. If your friend is having trouble expressing what they need, start with the items in this episode and then go from there.

Show Notes

Physical Items

  • Toiletries: hair ties, scrunchies, contact case with saline, Advil, chapstick, and socks
  • Medical journal: notebook, pens, binder, and even a medical summary template
  • Quality food and drinks: protein snacks, fresh fruits and veggies, and a kettle or wand for making warm drinks
  • To keep busy: puzzle books, phone and Kindle chargers and batteries, Apple Arcade gift card, embroidery kit, and coloring pencils

Kind Acts  

  • Do their laundry.
  • Be a good listener.
  • Take them for a walk outside.
  • Babysit the child in the hospital.
  • Babysit the child’s siblings.

Often, caregivers won’t know how long their child may have to stay in the hospital. It could be a day or it could be weeks. Sometimes the child is discharged, but then has to make an emergency return soon after. There are so many unknowns, surprises, and obstacles that your friend will have trouble meeting their own basic needs. Start with the basics on this list and then follow-up frequently. Your support is so important. 

Resources

Connect with Julie

Connect with Melissa

Produced by NOVA Media

Brave Writer Podcast

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