This might sound a bit strange or morbid even, but my friend was just involved in a car accident and is now in hospital with a broken leg, rib and punctured lung. I'm going to visit him and want to take him things to show that I'm thinking of him and that will keep him occupied and happy as well all know how lonely hospital can be. So far, I've got the paper, magazines and puzzle books - anyone got any suggestions? Much appreciated, thanks.
When I have friends in hospital, I don't bring anything on the initial visit, I usually go and ask them what they want but rja's suggestion about the disc man is a good one, I usually find people ask for a radio, so perhaps if you could find a small radio with headphones. Sometimes it just turning up at the hospital is enough for the sick person to let them know that you're thinking of them.
Why not make subtle enquiries of your friend, or mutual friends to find out any books he might like, but never had the time (until now!) to read. What about a pack of cards, always useful for the two of you, or your friend and other patients. A combination of these answers should do the trick.
Thanks to everyone who answered! Someone's just lent him a laptop, so I'll take some DVDs to him and he already has a radio. He's not a smoker actually (thank god, so his lung will heal quicker) but I still thought that was an excellent answer xyzzy. Thanks again everybody, and I'm not going to see him till tomorrow, so any more suggestions are gratefully received. Thanks Lx