To her Facebook friends, it came as a shock. Above all the usual photos of the birds she snapped on her daily walks was a simple, yet devastating, post:
"I had hoped for 'hope' when I had my oncology appointment … But that was not the case. I have terminal cancer …"
Not unexpectedly, an outpouring of grief and prayers swamped her Facebook feed. It was a stunningly rare type of post. More often, the sick and dying simply become ill and never post again on social media, and then one day, a relative makes the official death announcement on their page.
But this was different and it is something social media users might consider.
Is it useful to make such a post? For those who have a lot of cyber friends who live very far away, such an announcement can be helpful, since they might have no idea that their friend is ill in any way. Of course, it limits privacy for the person experiencing a terminal illness, and that's a consideration.
What should they say? Be sure to say whether visitors or calls are welcome — and it is perfectly acceptable if they are not. A useful phrase: "I am not taking calls or visits right now as I come to terms with what is before me."
How much to reveal? Details are usually unnecessary and private.
What family details might be revealed? "My family has been so wonderfrul to me … they are my shelter in all things. I believe that God walks with me and I will never be alone."
One caution: Don't air negative thoughts and family disputes. These will only detract from the topic at hand.