The "back to childhood" idea sounds pretty good--you could have a lot of things that represent a simpler time in people's lives. Or you could go with an idea about how to help cancer patients do the things they are too tired to do--such as cleaning their houses, doing the laundry, making meals ahead of time--a sort of "household help" theme--where you have made the food ahead of time in small quantities--where you have ideas to help patients get inexpensive or free (volunteer) cleaning or laundry help, or babysitting and pet care helpers for the times when they can't do these things themselves. I know that as a cancer patient myself, the thing that I needed help with the most was just doing ordinary things i felt too weak or tired to accomplish. It helped that I had friends who were willing to do these things for me. Reducing stress was another big one--how about getting some "zen" themed decor--or calming, soothing party themed ideas? Things that would help caregivers and patients reduce the anxiety surrounding a cancer diagnosis? Meditation experts--or visualization experts, etc. I also accessed a wonderful service that came to my house to show me wigs to buy when my hair fell out--the woman came and brought several styles and colors for me and I was able to try them on in the privacy of my own home rather than traveling to a store to buy one. That was really nice.

There are also groups who make things like soft hats to wear--or pretty scarves for patients with no hair. And they came to me--I didn't have to go to them. One good place I found for these sources was in my doctor's office--they had a bulletin board with services like this posted. You may find some ideas in a place like that too. Visit an oncology office--and ask them for lists of services and providers.

Hi Vanessa

That sounds a great idea!

You could incorporate some childrens games (all adults love to join in), e.g. pass the parcel,panyata, musical chairs etc etc!!! and you could make some simple goody bags to give away at the end??

Here's a few other ideas:Flower Power' party - (1960/70's

1. Black and White - everyone wears something black and/or white. Have a photographer taking black and white pictures,and artist sketching/Silhouettes

2. Summer party - everyone dress very summery, summer food etc

3. 'Flower Power' party - (1960/70's)The ' everything was "groovy" and we wanted to "make love, not war" stuff. You can't forget the "Have a Nice Day" smiley face because we still see that icon today. So hold a party in honor of all of that peace, love and grooviness,Ask guests to come dressed in their best 1960's - 1970's flower child clothing such as ripped denim jean; tie dye anything; bandanas tied around their head; daisies in their hair; large tinted glasses; big peace signs necklaces.Play music from bands of that era, e.g. The Guess Who; Sly and the Family Stone; Early Rolling Stones; Beatles; etc.Give out party favor bags that contain popular candy from that period including: Razzles, Pop Rocks, Lemon Heads, Laffy Taffy, Sweet Tarts, Runts.

Have a great party!

I am hosting an annual charity event that runs in line with a conference. This year the conference is all about Making Life Simple. It is a cancer charity and the idea of the conference is about making life simple for those with cancer. It doesn't necessarily mean easy, it means being efficient and not overly complex and a means to making a better life for those affected.

I am really struggling to come up with any good ideas, other than a simple coloured theme but it doesn't seem fun enough. I thought maybe a 'kids party' - back to a time where everything was carefree and you didn't have to worry about anything. Basically like a play house for adults with sweets/candy.

Thoughts? Other suggestions very welcome.