DEAR MISS MANNERS: A few months ago, I was diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer. I had many friends, family members and colleagues send gifts, cards, emails and texts, for which I know that I am very, very lucky.
Most of these occurred in the first month after my diagnosis, which was a flurry of tests, procedures and doctor’s appointments. I tried to keep up with sending thank-you notes or responding to emails, but it was quite overwhelming. Unfortunately, many slipped through the cracks.
Now a couple months have passed. What is the etiquette for sending thanks or responding at this point?
GENTLE READER: Sadly, you do have a legitimate excuse. Etiquette is not so heartless as to discount genuinely overwhelming circumstances.
Still, you do want to show your appreciation. Miss Manners reminds you that some of those kind people will surely have asked what they can do to help. One or more of them could make your task easier by taking dictation from you to write on your behalf.
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(Please send your questions to Miss Manners at her website, www.missmanners.com; to her email, dearmissmanners@gmail.com; or through postal mail to Miss Manners, Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.)
