This thread has cracked me up, and made me gasp in horror at some of the appalling things people come out with.
Since my dx I've had all the usual so brave, coping so well, stay positive, don't know what I'd do if it was me, but you look so well, soon be back to normal, you're lucky it's only early stage/small/in one breast etc etc comments.
I haven't been offended as everyone has only been trying to say something appropriate when they know there is really nothing to be said. Only one comment really offended me, from a manager at work, whose aunt had chemo and apparently "it just makes you feel a bit fluey for a day or two so you'll be fine". Great! I'll just stock up on the Lemsip and be back at work next week then shall I.
Personally I like to make a joke out of it where possible. The OH and I are getting married in May and like to say that at least we've got the "in sickness and in health" bit covered.
On a definite "what not to say" note: many years ago I worked for a council and one day was going through a housing benefit claim with a young man who was being treated for testicular cancer. We got to the end of the form and I needed him to sign it. Opening my mouth as wide as possible to be sure to get my whole foot in, I said without thinking "that's it, sign there, just sign your life away" I felt terrible, but he was extremely good about it and just laughed saying he'd had far worse comments.
