Small Minnow,

I also can't offer much on the use of "anaplastic" -- hopefully someone can chime in on that who knows more.

Regarding your efforts to be available to your friend, I think you're doing the right thing. If he's still in the early stages of radiation, he's probably not feeling too badly -- yet! I know at that point I was trying to prove to everyone around me that I could handle it without any help or accommodations from anyone. I'd suggest that you continue to check with him from time to time, because as the effects start to kick in, he may find that he's eventually more willing to accept your help.

Cathy