Most people in Australia will be touched by cancer at some stage in their lives, either personally or through family and friends. On the upside however, the survival rate for many types of cancer has increased by more than 20% in the past three decades, due to medical treatment improvements and new interventions brought about by research.
As a major cause of illness in Australia, cancer has a substantial social and economic impact on individuals, families and the community. It was estimated that approximately 162,000 new cancer cases were diagnosed here in 2022, however every Australian’s journey with cancer is different. 1 in 3 Australian men and 1 in 4 Australian women will be diagnosed with cancer before the age of 75. This is the harsh reality of a world with cancer, where support, over and above encouraging words and love, is valuable.
So, when it comes to supportive care, what do you buy someone who has been diagnosed with cancer and about to start their treatment journey with chemotherapy or radiation would be:
- hand and nail care packs containing non-invasive, sensitive hand creams and lotions
- body wash, lip balm, facial cleanser and moisturiser
- scalp and hair care
- non-harsh soaps and serums.
It’s important to avoid products that contain perfumes, colognes, aftershaves, parabens and other alcohol-based ingredients as these can cause irritation and issues for people undergoing cancer treatments. The Follact Restore Healthy Hair range provides a unique system that was designed specifically with patients undergoing cancer treatments and scalp cooling in mind.
As treatment such as chemotherapy and radiation can cause nausea, our Enterade® advanced oncology formula ‘medical food’ in a refreshing orange flavour may help with symptoms such as diarrhoea, dehydration and limited absorption of nutrition, which can lead to increased fatigue and weakness. Enterade®’s formula uses select amino acids to rebuild the damage in healthy GI cells as a result of the treatments for cancer.
Another great idea is for the discerning woman who might be losing her hair through treatment – something that can be very traumatic for many – a beautifully designed headwear scarf in a variety of colours and designs. With compositions of bamboo and spandex, some being a turban-style, with or without a detachable tie, there are many ways to wear these as a comfortable headband.
Cooling therapy constricts (narrows) the blood vessels below the skin where hair and nails grow. Experts think that cooling allows less of some chemo medicines to get to these areas. This may reduce the impact of chemo on these cells. Ice Cold socks and gloves which are reusable, are intended as cold therapy for persons requiring hot or cold therapy, and can make a great, practical gift.
And of course, there are those gifts that do not need to be physically given to a loved one. By letting them know that you are there to support them can come in many ways, shapes and forms, such as:
- Volunteering your time is a positive and inspiring way to assist.
- Charity fundraising with a host of various events.
- Make a donation and helping cancer research
- Shave your head for cancer research is one of the most powerful ways to show your love and support for someone you love.
If you are looking for the perfect support gift for a friend or loved one, Aurora Direct Gifting Care range is available on the website – which has products that provide both men and women with thoughtful gifts that show just how much you care.
Visit www.auroradirect.com.au
