[mrs bouquet]

My dear next door neighbour had a very large mole on his back, it has been removed, but there is now cancer in his lungs.    He is going to start some form of infused chemo, but has been told there is only up to a 40% chance this will work.    I wasnt really sure what this meant so I just nodded.    I imagine that this is a very serious situation and really not good at all.   Am I correct ?
This poor man.  Since last July he has had one leg amputated above the knee, all toes removed from the other foot, which will not heal and is still bandaged up to his ankle.  A stent fitted in his heart.   He is very overweight and has diabetis.    I feel so bad for him, we are good mates.   What can I say to him.   ?   Mrs Bouquet

[snowdrops]

He does sound in a bad way Mrs B, diabetes is a terrible disease & people just don’t seem to understand the ramifications of it, obesity too particularly if diabetic.
As for what to say to him, I’d just listen & try & make your times together a nice time.

[Yorkie]

I echo everything Snowdrops says. In addition, perhaps MacMillan can give him some support and advice?

[Goosegirl]

You are correct Mrs B. Seems you know him quite well so will be able to tell if he's someone you can talk to or he to you. Many people are afraid they might say the wrong thing and some just stay away, so go visit him and try to show you are ok with him talking about it. Some people can make fun of their illnesses (I did) so go with that if he does.

[mrs bouquet]

We have had a good laugh at what size shoes we is going to buy and he only wants one anyway.     Mrs B