What to knit a male cancer patient?

[SbutterAMfly]

Hi all,
I have a male friend who found a lymphatic tumor in his chest, and is terrified that it could be cancerous. They're doing the neccessary tests, but as of yesterday when I last spoke to him, he wasn't sure. I'm really hoping it's not cancerous. He's only 24, and shouldn't have to go through this...

BUT, if he does have to I want to knit him something to help get him through it. I know of people knitting shawls and chemo caps for women, but what would a guy want? Are there any patterns or ideas for a male shawl? Would a guy appreciate one? Would he want a chemo cap?

Any ideas would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks all.

[Jan in CA]

I hope your friend is okay!

Guys can use chemo caps, too. They keep a bald head covered and warm. A shawl is probably too feminine, but a small lap blanket (lapghan) might be nice.

[Knitting_Guy]

I can't imagine him wanting a shawl, but a cap in nice masculine colors would be good.

[snowbear]

A lap robe, or just a afghan would be great.. just remember not to heavy in weight.. it's amazing how hard it is for some cancer patients to lift some blankets

Or some felted houseslippers.....

[Compulsive]

The Halfdome hat from Knitty would be perfect.

PS: I'm sorry your friend is going through such a trying time in his young life. Let us hope for the best, and that your friend won't need the hats.

[niffer]

How about something whacky like a personalized toy bear or something to suit his personality?

or a coffee cup holder or soap jacket to make it easier for him to hold things if he needs treatment?

[Cristy]

I think a lapgan or a novelty item (like a wacky teddy bear) would be a good idea. I don't know many men who want shawls but I've known several who found the lapgan especially useful.

[Stonington]

It seemed that my friend always had cold feet.. so maybe socks?
Will think positive thoughts for your friend.

hugs,
anne

[Jeremy]

I know I'm going against the grain here but I would still go with a prayer shawl. There is something really great about wearing something that one or more people have knit while praying for you. Keep in mind that he probably would not be wearing it out and around but would wear it while out in a chair in his room or sitting up in bed to keep the chill off. I have a friend who has knit these shawls for men and he tells me thery were gratefully used and that the wearers were comforted.

[VictoiseC]

Yes, prayer shawl sounds beautiful, but if you just make a square more like a small afghan then it can be folded, triangular, to turn into a shawl or put over the front of you.

And slippers or socks. Big comfortable socks, real soft.

So sorry to hear about your friends discovery. May God be with him.