DEAR ABBY: Recently, I have been diagnosed with a type of blood cancer with a life expectancy of two to eight years. My question is, how do I let people know? I have told a few close friends and asked them not to tell others until I get a few things settled. I have also told them if others comment about my weight loss (I’ve lost about 20 pounds) that I’m okay with letting them know. I’m not sure a blast email or text would be the way to do it. Looking for suggestions. -- UNSURE IN ARIZONA
DEAR UNSURE: I’m sorry you received bad news. A diagnosis of cancer has serious implications, even if it doesn’t involve an expiration date. I agree a mass email blast wouldn’t be the best way to deliver this news. If someone comments on your weight loss, explain about your diagnosis. Do not ask anyone else to keep it to themselves, and word will trickle out. Of course, your family and closest friends should be told by you so they won’t hear about it secondhand.
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Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.
