Overthinking how to support a friend with cancer is an epidemic! So KISS it,
Keep It Simple, Sweetheart.
When figuring out what you can do, consider things that bring you joy, a hot cup of tea, a funny conversation, or a great movie.
Or consider fads that you'd like to try...like an adult coloring book.
My oldest son bought this for me for Christmas. Although I had considered buying one for myself, I never did. But now that I have one, I find myself filling in the relaxing designs. especially when needing a break from thinking.
I'm still amazed at how coloring allows my brain to just empty out. According an online article on CNN, "coloring also allows us to switch off our brains from other thoughts and focus only on the moment, helping to alleviate free-floating anxiety."
Depending on the side effects of their chemo, a coloring book might be the perfect gift. Or maybe it won't. But either way, it's the thought that counts.
In the end, you'll be put in the "good cancer friend" column simply because you didn't say "If you need anything, let me know" and sit back and wait for instructions.