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Tuesday, June 19, 2007 12:00 AM

What's worse -- my breast cancer, or my relatives trying to "help" me?

I am a secular person, I do not like the color pink, and I need to manage my disease my own way.

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  • Tuesday, June 19, 2007 08:54 AM

    been there

    Dear Letter writer,

    I wish you well in this very difficult time. I can totally understand what you're going through. Eight years ago I was diagnosed with breast cancer. Besides having to deal with the shock and the treatment, I found it could be difficult to deal with certain friends and family members. What I found I wanted most from people was that they listen, but not many people were willing or able to do that without offering their at times unwanted advice or opinions. Don't worry about your in-laws and their reactions. You absolutely must put your own needs first right now. Having cancer was not something I would have chosen. But I did learn a little about what is important to me and how to react to others who are ill. For that I am grateful.

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