The best get well soon gifts are cheerful and easy to care for: a small bright bouquet for someone recovering at home, preserved roses or a bubble balloon for someone in hospital, and a treat like chocolate-dipped strawberries for the family looking after them. Add a short, warm note, because the message often matters more than the gift.
Below we match gift ideas to the situation, explain the hospital rules to check in Ottawa, and share card wording that strikes the right tone.
Match the gift to where they are recovering
| Situation | Good choice | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Recovering at home | A small fresh bouquet | Brightens a room they are spending a lot of time in |
| In hospital | Preserved roses or a bubble balloon | No water or pollen, and often allowed where fresh flowers are not |
| A child at CHEO | A personalized balloon or a small gift | Fun to look at; check the unit's rules first |
| Long recovery | Preserved roses | They keep their look for a year or more |
| Supporting the caregivers | Chocolate-dipped strawberries | A treat for the family, if diet allows |
Sending a get well gift to an Ottawa hospital
We deliver to Ottawa hospitals, including CHEO. Some units do not allow fresh flowers or latex balloons, often intensive care, oncology, transplant and some newborn units, because of infection risk and allergies. Before you order, check the hospital's or unit's current policy, or ask a family member to check for you. Preserved roses are a good alternative because they need no water and carry no pollen.
For a hospital delivery, have these details ready:
- The patient's full name
- The hospital, building or wing
- The unit and room number, if known
- A phone number for the patient or a family member
Keep it compact. Bedside tables are small, and a tall arrangement can get in the way of nurses and equipment.
Gift ideas for someone recovering at home
- A bright bouquet: yellows, oranges and soft pinks feel sunny and hopeful. Ask for a light scent if the person is sensitive to strong fragrances.
- A single preserved rose: a small, lasting gesture that needs nothing from them.
- A balloon with a short message: "Get well soon" or a favourite nickname lifts the mood.
- Treats for the household: strawberries for visitors or family helping out.
If the recipient has cats, avoid lilies entirely. True lilies (Lilium) and daylilies (Hemerocallis) are extremely toxic to cats, even from pollen or vase water. If a pet chews any plant and you are worried, call your vet or an animal poison control line right away.
What to write on a get well card
Keep it short and warm. Avoid medical questions or advice. A few lines that always work:
- "Thinking of you and wishing you a speedy recovery."
- "Sending love, rest and lots of good days ahead."
- "No need to reply. Just know we're cheering for you."
- For a child: "Get well soon, superstar! We can't wait to see you."
Add your message at checkout and it is hand-written on a card.
Timing and delivery
Same-day delivery is available on many arrangements within our delivery area. Order early in the day, and call or text 819-208-3034 to confirm afternoon, hospital or custom orders. In winter, choose a delivery when someone is home so fresh flowers are not left out in the Ottawa cold. Delivery is priced by distance from our studio in Carp, near Kanata, starting at $10 up to 10 km, with the exact fee shown at checkout.
Frequently asked questions
What is a good get well gift for someone in hospital?
Preserved roses or a bubble or foil balloon, since many units restrict fresh flowers and latex balloons. Check the unit's policy first.
Can I send flowers to CHEO?
Yes, to units that allow them. Some CHEO units do not accept fresh flowers or latex balloons, so check first or choose preserved roses.
What flowers are good for get well soon?
Bright, lightly scented flowers like roses, tulips and gerberas in cheerful colours. Skip lilies if the home has cats.
Should I send a gift or visit?
Both are kind, but a gift with a note lets them rest without needing to host. Ask the family before visiting.
Related reading
Send something beautiful today
Same-day delivery on many arrangements across Ottawa. Questions or custom requests? Call or text us.
Studio and pickup: 71 Wingover Private, Carp, ON K0A 1L0. Delivery up to 55 km; farther away, request a delivery price.