When we meet another advanced prostate cancer survivor or a friend who we know is also dealing with a serious chronic illness we always ask “How are you doing?” No matter what the reality is, our initial reply is usually “alright” or “OK.” Then we will inquire about them and their initial response to us is “alright” or “OK.”

When we meet another friend or an acquaintance we will often go through the same routine, but or response is more then likely, “great” or “terrific.”

Those of us on the journey understand the code.

Joel T. Nowak MA. MSW