Neighbor's 2 Yo Child in Having Heart Surgery

Things I would appreciate if my child were in the hospital would be a basket of things, small things that would be quiet play, a book or something with short stories or comic relief, nothing too involved so when the child wakes full attention can be made to the child and I still feel like I read something. A printed certificate that you will take care of something while they visit their child so they can not worry about that, be it lawn mowing, pet sitting, or doing the shopping trip(with their list) when they are about to get home so they don't have to go out or a gift certificate to peapod or other delivery service so they can shop online and have it delivered. Maybe a fruit basket of a big variety not quantity with a few bottles of water, and candies tucked in. No matter which you choose to do know that the thought will be appreciated and while you may not be close will go a along way with letting them know they have neighbors who care.

My son needs to have heart surgery, likely this summer, and so I can tell you that it is truly a parent's worst nightmare. When we were first told of this, I desperately wanted my friends to reach out but sadly, so many didn't know what to say (or do) and so they backed away. Please, please...even if you don't know them very well, reach out to them. They are terrified and lost. Knowing that you are there for them is the best thing that you can do. Honestly, for me, just having a friend call/ text/ e-mail me daily leading up to things helped immensely because I felt so alone. It's one of those things where people feel a sense of relief "thank god, it's not me" and almost want to avoid that person so they don't have to put themselves in their shoes.

Making a donation to the hospital is very generous but the family needs some kinship too.

M., My son has had 2 open heart surgeries (1st at 11 days & second at 6 months). He will have another one next summer. Definitely reach out. Ask how you can help. If they can't think of anything, just do something. You can make meals, mow their grass, offer to do laundry, help with their other children, bring food to the hospital (hospital food gets old fast), etc. If the hospital is far, maybe you could give them a gas card.

With so many people having food allergies, cooking for neighbors can be tough, but I agree w/the others that there are so many other things you can do to help that would be appreciated (and please don't be upset if you don't get a thank you immediately- I'm sure they are preoccupied.)

Mowing their lawn is a big one, gas cards or grocery gift cards are always helpful- medical expenses can be outrageous and insurance doesn't cover everything, so the cost can really add up and be devastating in and of itself.

ASK what you can do too- if you're willing to be an emergency babysitter, let them know they can call or come by if they need you. Make sure they have your contact info to do so. Let them know you're willing to pick up items at the grocery store for them when you go, come by and do a load of laundry, etc.

I too have children with medical problems and you have no idea how hard it is! I think it's wonderful that you are thinking of what you can do, and are willing to step in and help.

A gift basket for the sick child would be a nice gesture with some movies or DS games if he/she has a DS. Also, maybe make them some meals they can throw in their freezer and heat. They may need help with childcare for their other kids if they don't have family or close friends to help them with that.

Make a lasagna/casserole in a tossable aluminum pan, put a note on it with your numbers in case someone needs to be picked up from school or where ever if you are able to help and let them know you are there if they need you. The donation is an awesome idea.

How kind and thoughtful of you!

Maybe offer to take the other kiddos for a few hours one day, or do a load of laundry for them. Bring them their mail. Easy, simple tasks like that make MY life so much easier when I have a migraine (I get them BAD). Make dinner one night, just so they don't have to think about it... or have their other kids over to eat.

How old is the child having surgery? They're going to need games or puzzles or books while they're recovering.

I think the donation idea is wonderful as well!

My daughter had surgery when she was a baby. A co-worker/friend & her husband delivered a basket to us full of snacks, magazines, rolls of quarters for the vending machines, etc. for us to have while we were at the hospital. They also brought a lasagna & chili that could be frozen until we were home again and needing to eat. Probably anything that will make their lives easier during this process and when they get home will be appreciated.

I would go w/a "waiting room" gift basket. Fill it w/portable snacks, gum, mints, water, magazines and other things they can use while waiting at the hospital. Maybe even a small journal w/pockets they can record things in - thoughts, names of doctors & nurses, pertinent info they might need in the future. Also, floss, mouthwash, even a travel pillow and small blanket. Put it in a resusable sturdy tote, maybe even an insulated tote they can keep drinks cold.

Waiting rooms are horribly uncomfortable already - why not make it a little more pleasant for them?

You are a thoughtful neighbor. hth

Why not bake something for the family?

Cookies or a breakfast roll?