This Holiday Season, Share Kindness and Gratitude
Inexpensive gifts of the heart can help offset medical costs of the year
As we’re in the middle of the holiday season, many people are swiping their credit cards for the perfect gifts for their loved ones. What about those of us in the rare disease community already struggling to pay for medications and other treatments to improve quality of life or sustain it?
This year has been a lot! It’s no secret that most have found it financially challenging. And those in the rare disease community have our own challenges when it comes to money.
One of my first columns was about the insurmountable costs of my medical care related to pulmonary hypertension (PH) and my coexisting conditions. I wish I was the “Million Dollar Baby” for the same reasons as the movie character performed by Hilary Swank. She was one tough boxer after being trained.
Many people with chronic illnesses aren’t in the best financial situation. However, we often lack the energy to shop for bargains. But it’s not only the money aspect; the added stress of shopping errands and events can also exacerbate symptoms. It’s essential to plan ahead and not allow shopping for gifts and extra errands to take control of us. Ask for help.
While families and friends gather to enjoy food and gifts, some patients spend the holidays in the hospital. These families are making decisions that others could never imagine. You can see how the added costs of gift-giving could easily jeopardize our health.
Think minimalist
I come from a long line of gift-loving women who enjoy picking out gifts for others. I enjoy finding those items that remind me of the receiver each year. But this year, I, too, will be cutting back. I know my husband, Manny, will like this.
As much as I enjoy finding the perfect item for my loved ones, I know that time is something you can’t buy. Being kind and offering a helping hand to those in need are free, but they’ll make a lasting impression much longer than any more traditional gift could.
What about a DIY gift?
Handwritten cards are treasures. Some may say they’re a waste of paper, but they’re much more than that. Handwritten sentiments take time to write and are generous. Those who can’t handwrite them due to physical limitations may buy online cards like Postables, which can type and send the message to your loved one.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly gift for people with a disability, think about what they could use for help on their most difficult days. Make gifts of homemade coupons for activities like cleaning, transporting the recipient to a medical appointment, and maybe even spending a night together with pj’s and movies. Grocery shopping would be another gift idea. I could use help with all of these daily tasks, but may be reluctant to ask.
Most of us would love to talk to our friends and loved ones. Simply spending time together is a gift. If you haven’t seen someone recently, the gift of a call would be even better and more personalized than a text message. A quick call to say hello will remind the receivers they’re on your mind this holiday season and year-round.
I’ve learned to enjoy the memories and help others when I can during the holidays. The past few years have been isolating and overwhelming. Let’s share kindness and offer a hand, an ear, or whatever else we can provide others that they may appreciate.
Create new memories that last a lifetime
I get it if you’re stressed out by the holidays while trying to manage a rare and chronic disease, as I am. Our spoons — our energy — dwindle fast during the holidays. I can never make it to every event I’ve planned. That’s why I’m grateful to savor each special moment. Life is too short to be anything but kind.
So I’m choosing to gift my time and kindness to others instead of spending money on things. Memorable moments with loved ones last longer, cost less, and create less stress.
I wish you and your loved ones a happy holiday season from my home to yours. May the new year bring an improved quality of life and many much-needed clinical trials that lead to new treatments and cures.
Note: Pulmonary Hypertension News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Pulmonary Hypertension News or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to pulmonary hypertension.
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Comments
Dorothy Irwin-Browning
Jen, that was wonderful. Chock full of ideas we need to be reminded of. It is so lovingly written that it really struck accord. It is one of those little things in life I will never forget. I'm going to print parts of it to use as bookmarks. Say, maybe that is another little idea, make bookmarks for others with a special message on them.
May those in this group have symptom free holidays.
Doti Browning
Jen Cueva
Hi Doti,
I love the idea of printing out special messages on bookmarks for gifts. I'm honored that you would do that with my column. Thanks so much for reading and sharing such a lovely idea.
Wishing you a symptom-free holiday season, too, my PHriend!I hope to see you around soon in the forums. Take care, and thanks so much for taking the time to comment.
Cheri Jill Upshaw
Jen, great article. I did something this year that really helped. I wanted to send cards as usual to family, friends, and past clients. I always did handwritten. Instead, I went to the Hallmark site and found some really nice cards for $2.00 each, typed in the messages, and signed them online. Then they sent them out. The $2.00 included postage. It did not take long or cost much. No stamps to buy or trips to the post office. Many of you may already do this but it is new to me and I left the addresses in my database with auto-reminders for future birthday cards, etc. I felt like a weight was lifted cheaply and quickly.
Jen Cueva
Happy New Year, Jill! I'm so excited to hear that you enjoyed this column. I have used a website called, Postables, which sounds similar. But I've never tried Hallmark. Heck, I had no idea they had those options. As you mention, Postables will save addresses and birthdays, too. You can also set up reminders to send cards out. I like that I can semi-handwritten them on that site, which looks nice. They also have discount codes often that will come to your inbox if you sign up.
Yes, I'm sure those simple cards meant the world to those who received them. I enjoy those little treasures. So happy to hear that you found a way to do this, and it takes less of your limited energy, too.
I hope to see you soon back in the forums. Cheers to 2023!
Love, hugs, and kindness,
Jen