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Cancer: There are no correct things to say, just being there
Life has a way of creating unexpected connections. Sometimes, these moments come with a quiet power — a reminder of our shared fragility and strength.
Last week, as I was leaving a clinic, I overheard a conversation that stopped me in my tracks. A man said, seemingly offhand, “Well, I guess I’ll head back to work.” His wife’s response was quiet, but it carried the weight of the world: “But I have cancer…”
It felt intrusive to listen, yet I couldn’t help but feel drawn into the gravity of her words. As her husband went to get the car, she stood alone, the air around her heavy with unspoken emotions. I hesitated for a moment before approaching her — unsure if my gesture would be welcome. “Would you like someone to stay with you?” I asked softly. She looked at me, a stranger, and replied, “You don’t have to, but I’d appreciate it if you did.”
So, I stayed.
She began to share her story. She had just learned she has lung cancer. Because she also has COPD, surgery wasn’t an option. The doctors were planning to try radiation, but even that carried its own uncertainties. Her voice was steady as she spoke, but I could sense the storm of emotions she was holding back. It was one of those moments when words felt both necessary and entirely inadequate.
