Lori,

I found it difficult to tell people that I had cancer. I had to inform my boss because of taking time off from work. But he was bound by company policy and I believe also HIPA laws to not say anything to my co-workers. I eventually told some of my co-workers after I returned to work.

I told friends and family also eventually. Since I've been on the cancer journey for a number of years including a recurrence and multiple surgeries, I ended up sending out updates via e-mail to friends and family. It was much easier for me to do it this way then to call everyone separately and answer the same questions over and over. There are also other websites (I believe one is called Care Givers) that you can register on and post updates. I know of number of people have used this as a way to keep friends and family informed. Facebook is also another option.

It is up to you who want to tell and when. But even if you tell friends in confidence, it will probably hit the rumor mills.