Paul, not everyone you know or are acquainted with needs to know your medical history. As far as Facebook goes, I would advise against posting too much there. Im not a big fan of the entire world forever knowing every detail of everyone's lives. Take a good look at your friends list. Think of how many of those people you would normally tell personal things to, how many do you even talk to on a weekly basis (besides thru the computer) or monthly? Chance are you are like most of us and have many "friends" that are not much more than a passing acquaintance. Maybe Im just more old-school with my privacy and think a little differently than true Facebook fans do.

I understand what you are going thru. Ive been down that road a few times. People will surprise you when you tell them about your diagnosis. Not all of the people closest to you will remain close, some will run for the hills when the chips are down. Not everyone can mentally handle a patients mortality being questioned. Some people who arent close will become your biggest cheerleaders and be by your side for anything you could ever need. Everyone is different and will surprise you with their reactions. Being diagnosed myself, I know all too well when telling people how it changed their perception of me and how we would interact with each other in the future. This can be a very frustrating time when everyone who is close doesnt seem to "get it", but somehow practical stranger will.

Do one thing to help yourself down the line. When you tell people and they offer their support tell them when the time comes you will let them know what they can do to help. Write down their name and contact info. Make sure whoever is your main caregiver is they know your little black book is full of their back-up helpers. It could be something small like grocery shopping, picking up prescriptions from the pharmacy, driving you to treatment or an appointment, helping out with your family obligations like mowing the lawn or taking the dog to the vet. There are a million small things that all add up to making this journey easier for everyone involved. Dont be too proud to take help that is offered. I was a stubborn one and liked doing everything by myself. It took being practically bedridden before I accepted help from others.

Hang in there!!! We will be here to help guide you thru this.