It is difficult to know the right words to write in get well cards, but sending cards to someone who is battling an illness is so important to keep their spirits up. The tone you choose to you write with is dependant on who the person is to you, a close friend, a co-worker, a member of the family. Most importantly is to find out the nature of the illness; this will make your choice of words a little easier. For example, a broken foot is less serious than heart surgery. I had a very close call recently when I was sending my father-in-law a get well card and neglected to read the preprinted verse. He was terminally ill and inside was a cheery wish for a speedy recovery. Thankfully I had the sense to look before I mailed the card.
Here are some suggestions for get well messages to write in a card:
• I am so sorry to hear that you’ve been ill
• I’m wishing you the very best during your recovery
• I hope you’re doing well and are on the road to recovery
• You are in my thoughts/prayers
• Best wishes for a speedy recovery
It is also important to remember what you shouldn’t write as well:
• Don’t compare illnesses
• Do not tell stories you heard about the hospital, doctor or your Aunt Jane who had sort of the same thing
• Don’t let the tone of your message be morose or sad
• Don’t tell them there are people who have it much worse
A short, simple message is all you need to convey your feelings.
Too often we are multi-tasking and in a hurry to be certain we accomplish all that’s on our plate, but I’m glad that you caught yourself before mailing the get well card. It could have worked in reverse …. the terminally ill patient might have gotten a good chuckle out of it. However, not a good idea.