3 Ways to Help a Friend Traveling for Unexpected Medical Treatments

Whether you are new parents traveling back and forth to the NICU for a prematurely delivered baby, or you are a caretaker to an elderly parent or a sick loved one, juggling home life, grocery shopping, meal preparation, and gas expenses can make caring for yourself and your loved one more challenging. If you find yourself in this situation, or know someone who is, I'm sharing 3 ways you can help a friend or loved one who may be traveling for unexpected medical treatments.

Many of us don't realize how much gas is required for driving to and from various medical appointments. Giving a gas gift card can help them through this time and help ease the burden of extra driving. Gas gift cards can be purchased online, at any gas station, and even on Amazon. I love this thoughtful way to give the gift of gas in a notecard!

Another helpful gesture is to provide meal gift cards. Meal gift cards ensure there is access to meals without the stress of cooking, allowing your loved one to maintain their focus on what matters during a difficult time. I love the idea of creating a gift card menu. This provides an opportunity for friends and loved ones to lend a hand in a simple and meaningful way. It would also make a wonderful gift for any occasion!

When families experience an unexpected hospital stay for a spouse, child, or parent, they may have children as well as pets at home who need loving care and attention. Consider volunteering your time to babysit or pet sit. When experiencing a major life change, daily tasks can take a back burner. A Poplin gift card provides a service that will pick up laundry, wash and fold it, and then re-deliver it straight to your recipient's door. A wonderful git indeed!

I hope these three simple gestures inspire you to find positive ways to support a family member or loved one who is dealing with an unexpected medical stay, frequently traveling to various appointments, or visiting a family member in a difficult situation. For more ways to give money as a gift like the beautiful image at the top of this newsletter, click here! Remember, there is no greater gift than your friendship and kind words. If you can't afford to give a monetary gift, simply reach out to let them know you are there for them. There's no telling how much a timely, encouraging word may be needed!

photo credit: What Moms Love

photo credit: Pinterest

1. We’ve gathered easy snack recipes that store well in the fridge or pantry and bring comfort long after the main meal is gone. A little extra love really does go a long way!

Don’t have Instagram? Click here for the recipe!

2. For just $30 at Trader Joe’s, you can turn a few bunches of flowers into a stunning, thoughtful bouquet. Flowers are such a simple way to show someone they’re loved and seen, and they’re always a perfect addition to a meal drop-off or care package!

3. We’re sharing 5 thoughtful quotes, perfect for sending to a friend who’s on your mind. Whether they’re going through a tough time, need a little encouragement, or it’s just been a while since you last connected, these words are a simple way to show you care.

4. Taking a meal to someone doesn’t have to be complicated. This balsamic chicken thigh dish is one of my go-tos! Just a few simple ingredients, and the crockpot does all the work!

Don’t have Instagram? Click here for the recipe!

5. Salads can be a meal by themselves or a wonderful side to another main dish. We've compiled some of the best salads and side dish recipes on our Pinterest! 

Take Them A Meal is an easy (and free!) online tool for coordinating the delivery of meals to loved ones. If a friend is ill, elderly, or welcoming a child, you can rally their community to take them meals. We also offer delicious, fully-prepared meals that can be shipped directly to their door!

Surprise your loved ones with a delicious, chef-made meal delivered straight to their door. Explore Shipped Meals

Our culinary team has tested each of these recipes to make sure we can heartily recommend them. Explore Our Recipes

Check out these thoughtful and practical gifts including engraved spoons, meal carriers and more!

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