What Should I Say to the Person Who Has Cancer?
It is normal to feel that you don't know what to say to someone who has cancer. You might only know the person casually, or you may have worked （1） or lived near each other for many years and have a closer relationship. The most important （2） you can do is to acknowledge the situation in some way － whatever is most comfortable for you. You can show interest and concern, you can express encouragement, or you （3） offer support. Sometimes the simplest expressions of concern are the （4） meaningful.
While it is good to be encouraging, it is also important （5） to show false optimism or to tell the person with cancer to always have a positive attitude. Doing （6） things may discount their fears, concerns, or sad feelings. It is also tempting to say that you know （7） the person feels. While you may know this is a difficult time, no one can know exactly how the person with （8） feels.
Humor can be an important way （9） coping. It is also another source of support and encouragement. Let the person with cancer （10） the lead; it is healthy if they find something funny about a side effect, like hair loss or increased appetite, and you can certainly join （11） in a good laugh. This can be a great way to relieve stress and to take a break from the （12） serious nature of the situation.
When the person with cancer looks good, let them know! Refrain （忍住）（13） comments when their appearance isn't as good, such as "You're looking pale," or "You've lost weight." Cancer and its treatment can be very unpredictable. Be prepared for good days and bad （14）.
Refrain from telling the person with cancer stories about family members or friends who have had cancer. Everyone is different, and these stories may not be helpful. Instead, it is better simply to tell them you know （15） about cancer because you've been through it with someone else.
