A cancer doctor said that one reason patients don't tell is that from then on every conversation with friends and loved ones is about cancer.

I kinda get that, not sure I would want to spend my limited time left dwelling on that so I understand why someone would keep it quiet for as long as they can.

On the other hand A neighbour who I hadn't seen for 3 months matter of factly mentioned they were terminal and died a month later. He was very stoic and I admired his fortitude I am not sure I would be so brave.

Such a personal choice.

One more point

Sounds about right. If you find out someone has cancer, especially if terminal the news can't help but colour how you interact with them. There's something to be said for having a few weeks or months of just appreciating friends and family and of having a modicum of normality that's in contrast to what you're facing.

Your neighbour sounds like a brave man who accepted what was coming. Like you, I'm not quite sure that I'd have been able to accept what was coming to that extent. Everyone is different though of course.

It's certainly not uncommon . About half of us will get it in our lifetime I believe, so whether directly or indirectly we'll face it..

Bluejay - that is hilarious so thank you!
Funny man indeed.
What a shame.

Edited by The Dolphin (22 Aug 2021 9.47pm)

It turns out it was lung cancer. Indications are that he was a heavy smoker. There are posts online going back three years saying that his voice sounded 'different' and in a couple of interviews he almost entirely lost his voice. Apparently these were signs, so it's a touch sad whether he knew at the time and didn't want to say, or not.

Yes, great video. He was a true comedian. Really funny man. Thanks for sharing.
RIP Sean.

Man is the most insane species. He worships an invisible God and destroys a visible Nature. Unaware that this Nature he’s destroying is this God he’s worshipping.

Hubert Reeves