Friends say the dumbest things

That's so disappointing, Stargirl. Especially from a parent. I too have found my elderly father's unconcerned reaction hurtful. It's as if he's forgotten I'm his child and forty years his junior. Facing mortality in old age doesn't equate to facing it prematurely. My siblings have been absent, apart from the occasional phone call. One friend just looks at me blankly and says nothing if I attempt to talk about BC issues. Another, thankfully has really stepped up. I don't really blame people for not knowing what to say or do. I even have that reaction myself when reading this forum, when I can't offer help.