What to write on a card to someone who is incurably ill?
What to write on a card to someone who is incurably ill?
What do you write to someone who is terminally ill? When someone has been told that a cure is no longer possible, words can suddenly become very difficult. You want to let them know you are thinking of them, but perhaps you are afraid of saying the wrong thing.
You don't have to find the perfect words. A simple, honest message is often enough. Write that you are thinking of someone, that you are there for them, or mention a beautiful memory you share together.
Below you will find sample text and inspiration for a card for someone who is incurably or terminally ill.
What do you say to someone who is not going to get better?
If someone is not going to get better, you don't have to lessen the grief. Nor do you have to offer solutions or try to encourage them.
Phrases like “I’m thinking of you,” “I’m here for you,” or “I don’t really know what to say” can actually be very fitting.
For example:
Dear [name],
I actually don't really know what to say. I mainly want to let you know that I am thinking of you and that I am here for you.
Lots of love,
[name]
Sample text for a card to someone who is terminally ill
Sometimes it helps to see examples. Above all, make the text personal and choose words that suit you and the other person.
Example 1 – short and simple
Dear [name],
I'm thinking of you. No big words, just lots of love from me.
Example 2 – if you don't know what to say
Dear [name],
Words fail me. I don't really know what to say, except that I think of you often. I wish you and the people around you much love for the time ahead.
Lots of love,
Example 3 – for someone you know well
Dear [name],
How I wish I could have given you different news. I think of you often and of everything we have been through together. Know that I am here for you.
Big hugs.
Example 4 – if you are somewhat distant from someone
Dear [name]
I heard the sad news and wanted to let you know that I am thinking of you. I wish you and your loved ones much warmth and love for the time ahead.
Lots of love,
[name]
What do you write to someone who is terminally ill?
When someone is terminally ill and the end of life draws near, words can become even more difficult. A card does not then have to be about illness or saying goodbye.
You can also write about what someone means to you, recall a memory, or simply let them know that you are thinking of them.
For example:
Dear [name],
I often think back to [personal memory]. I am so glad that we experienced that together.
I'm thinking of you and sending you lots of love.
Or very simply:
Dear [name],
I am thinking of you. You don't have to send or say anything back. This card is just to let you know that you are in my thoughts.
What is it better not to write to someone who is terminally ill?
Well-intentioned words can sometimes come across differently than you expect. Phrases like “stay positive,” “miracles happen,” “you must keep fighting,” or “everything happens for a reason” do not suit everyone.
“Take care” is fine too, but sometimes a personal message feels warmer.
You don't have to give someone hope or solve the grief. You can simply stand beside someone in what is.
What do you write on a card for your partner or family?
A card can also mean a lot to a partner, children, or other loved ones. They often empathize with the illness and everything that comes with it for a long time. You could write, for example:
Dear [name],
I am thinking of you. I cannot take away what is happening, but I want to let you know that I am here. For practical matters as well. If I can do the shopping, bring food, or take over anything else, I will gladly do so.
Offering concrete help can be more pleasant than just writing: “Just let me know if I can do anything.”
A card with a small gesture
Would you like to send something small along with your words? Stamps has lucky charms that go easily with a card.
A small gesture that someone can hang on a keyring or bag, for example. As a reminder of someone thinking of you.
You can order a card with a lucky charm here .
We developed our own card collection
Volunteers for Stamps have also designed cards for people going through a difficult time. You can find these at Kaartje2Go.
You can find them in shop at Kaartje2Go.
How do you stay involved when someone is terminally ill?
A card lets someone know that you are thinking of them. But with a long-term or incurable illness, keeping in touch can sometimes become complicated.
For the person who is ill, or for a partner or family member, it can be difficult to repeatedly explain how they are doing. At the same time, friends and family want to stay involved.
That is what Stamps was created for. With Stamps, you describe what you are experiencing in one safe, private place. You decide who can read along. Family and friends can respond and stay involved, without having to tell the same story over and over again.
A partner or close friend can also use Stamps to keep family and friends updated.
Do you know someone who might enjoy this? Feel free to point them to Stamps. Stamps is free to use and has no advertisements.
