And this is why Ive started making FAQ sheets for family functions.
followed by a line saying something to the effect of Thank you so much for asking!
(It helps to be polite.)
This can range from very basic (like What exactly was the diagnosis?)
to more specific information about treatment, if you decide to get into that.
Also, dont be afraid to say that you dont know the answer to something.
Those are some of the questions I dread the most.
A sample family FAQ
Not sure where to start?
Heres a quick sample.
(like note that the names and diseases have been changed.)
Whats going on with Gladys?
Thanks so much for asking about my stepmother!
As you may know, she has breast cancer.
How is she feeling?
It really depends on the day.
Some days shes her usual talkative self, but other days shes too tired to have a conversation.
Her spirits are up and down too.
But didnt her cancer go away?
She had a successful lumpectomy a few months ago, but more cancer was found in a follow-up test.
Now her medical team is trying to determine whether or not it spread to other parts of her body.
What happens now?
Theyre going to continue with chemo and radiation for six weeks, then reassess.
How much longer does she have?
We honestly dont know.
This is something we dont have an answer for.
What can I do?
Thank you so much for asking!
And of course, feel free to send over a card or lettershe loves getting mail.
If anything major happens, Ill send everyone a text with the update.
Why did you make this weird list?
Caring for a sick family member is emotionally exhausting, and I can only do so much.
Thank you so much for understanding.
