I think one of the most unique, most interesting, most useful and most memorable gift one could give to someone is to pay for a DNA genomic analysis for possible future health conditions.
For $99.00 one can get a DNA test done via ancestry.com either by directly setting up an account or purchasing same through amazon.con at:
http://www.amazon.com/AncestryDNA-Genetic-Testing-DNA-Test/dp/B00TRLVKW0
Either way, they mail you a test kit, you fill a small vial with saliva, mail it back and activate the kit online at the time you mail it back.
Six weeks later they email you back that the results are done and then you can log back into the account and download your DNA genome file, which is basically just a small text file.
For five dollars, you can then upload your genome file into:
and in a few minutes you will receive a notice from promethease.com that you can download an interactive HTML file that includes a health interpretation of your genome based on all the latest scientific research regarding which genes can be problematic in terms of future (or even current) disease.
There are MANY diseases that can be avoided in the future by making simple lifestyle changes such as avoiding gluten if you have a high propensity for developing Celiac disease, or taking supplements that could help ward off other possible diseases such as taking lutein and Zeathanthin if one is prone to macular degeneration.
In some cases, actual genetic diseases that WILL happen or are happening right now could show up.
In other cases, where disease may show up but there’s not much you can do about it ‘til it happens, at least you’re aware it COULD happen and be on the lookout for symptoms so that if it DOES happen then you’ll know what’s going on right away and can get an early start on treatment without having to go to a dozen doctors and take a hundred tests.
I really think a genomic analysis is one of the greatest gifts that anyone could give to someone.
I considered doing the DNA through ancestry because of looking for my mom, brother and maybe other relatives. Asked a lot of questions and did a lot of reading. Decided against it because the government is building a massive DNA database which Ancestry is contributing to. I would think that Amazon might as well.
Your suggestion is a great one but any medical information about someone is ending up in D.C. Whenever our family needs any lab work done, there is a local free standing lab available in our city where you can pay cash, don’t need anything from a doctor, don’t even need to use your real name and the results only go to the person requesting the tests.