Some Awesome Things To Say To A Cancer Patient

by The Awl April 26, 2011

by Virginia C. McGuire

You’ve lost so much weight. You look fantastic!
Thanks for noticing! My doctor says I’m malnourished.

You’re strong and I know you can beat this.
Are you going to be disappointed in me if I die?

I read that kelp/almonds/asparagus have magical anti-cancer properties.
You should definitely eat some, then.

I know what you’re going through.
Your grandfather’s colostomy bag does not make you an expert on my medical situation.

That reminds me of when my dog/cat/gerbil had a tumor on her leg.
I’m sure that was heartbreaking for you.

God doesn’t give us more than we can handle.
Define “handle.”

OMG, I have/had cancer too! Let’s be best friends.
Please stop weeping on my neck.

I know you don’t want to talk about it, but I really need to.
Get a therapist.

Cancer rates go up the less you exercise.
You’re right. It’s my fault I got cancer.

I am so impressed by how fearless you are.
Actually, I’m scared shitless, but I’ve gotten really good at hiding it.

I’m praying for you.
That kind of grosses me out.

I feel awful, too! I have such bad allergies this time of year.
You win.

Everything happens for a reason.
I’m beginning to doubt your intelligence.

I had a friend who died from that same kind of cancer!
Wow, what a coincidence. Fuck you.

Virginia C. McGuire received her first cancer diagnosis when she was ten years old. She has heard everything on this list at least once.