Thanks for sharing. During cancer treatment I felt like I lost my identity. I was no longer Laurie, but Laurie with CANCER. In beginning I kept diagnosis secret except for close family and few friends. But once lost hair to chemo, everyone knew. Most people do not know how to react. Either they say SORRY, or tell you about someone else who had cancer.

I am not sure what I wanted to hear, the best response is "is there anything I can do to help?", and to keep checking back. Cancer treatment goes on for years and patient needs support entire time.

I hope I have learned from experience and when someone tells me bad news. I respond with appropriate response.

This might be good topic for discussion, what is an appropriate response?

Laurie