Going No Contact post diagnosis

[Tinkobell]

We've had the misfortune of a couple of cancer diagnosis within our family recently. One resulted in a terrible fast end (GBM) and the other is on ongoing treatment plan. But one thing that has confused and upset me and other family members are a few people (good long term friends) who have literally gone cold post diagnosis. One was a best friend who sadly never visited in hospital and the others are just staying well away - no phone call nothing. I've chatted to a friend about this behaviour in a few people and apparently it happens quite a lot!! I can't understand why - do people think they might catch cancer? Is it ignorance? Is it a fear of witnessing someone else's pain?
I'm really interested to know what on earth is going on here (any psychologists ?) and the best way others may of found of addressing this rather hurtful behaviour. Thank you!

It is probably a combination of all that you have said. t's a bit like when you are bereaved and others don't know what to say or how to behave so they don't acknowledge it.

If you have email addresses could you let them know how your relative is and include "they would love to see you and catch up"?

I think when the end is near people don’t want to intrude or cause any distraction. I always text or email but feel intrusive to visit in hospital.