TheMoistWorldOfSeptimusQuench ·
31/01/2011 23:21
Just found out at the weekend that an old friend is in the local hospice and probably doesn't have long to go. She's 58.
We used to work very closely together, and have been friends for 16 years. That said, we've had less contact in the last 3 years - not because we haven't wanted to, but just let things drift a bit since I moved to another town, became a parent, she changed career, and so on. To say I regret that now doesn't even come close...
So, I'm going to see her, hopefully on Thursday. But I'm stumped. What to say? I can hardly stroll in with a cheery " Hi! It's so lovely to see you! DD's doing great, how are your kids?".
I should know better - I'm a social worker fgs, but with her being a friend, and one who I've had barely any contact with for ages, I just haven't a clue how much to ask about her illness, her prognosis, what sort of help to offer. Obviously this is not just about unfamiliarity - more sadness and probably some guilt at having let what was a really close and supportive friendship slide.
I had a text from a mutual friend earlier, saying that she really wants to see me and is looking forward to it, so I know it's the right thing to do and hopefully not intrusive.
Feel like I'm being a bit daft 