The Widow's Fables

My husband died of cancer. He had battled cancer once before.

Upon hearing my husband had died of cancer, I suppose people struggle with what to say. Cancer makes no sense. It is a thief, a terrible adversary.

For some, they must contemplate aloud possible solutions to battle the adversary. I realize people are trying to be helpful. But after cancer has already won the war, please don’t ask someone why they didn’t try this or that, why didn’t they go to this hospital, or start this cancer fighting diet. Definitely don’t mention those cancer fighting supplements you heard about on TV.

Those closest to my family know every step that was taken in the battle. We tried everything my husband thought was reasonable. By the time my husband’s cancer had returned it had spread to numerous places in his body—options and time were limited.

Hearing people ask “Why didn’t you?” isn’t helpful.