I learned through a 3rd party that a dear, but casual, female friend has breast cancer. What is an appropriate response for a male in this situation?

First off, “dear, but casual” means that we get along super well and we ‘get’ each other, but are both in committed relationships. We’ve spent little time alone, but we’ve chatted quite a bit, blown off steam and supported each other.

A mutual friend came up to me yesterday and said, “Lisa wants you to know that she’s really sorry that she hasn’t been around or been to the auction lately, but she’d been diagnosed with breast cancer and she’s really busy with that.” You have to know Lisa to know that this is not drama, not a sympathy bid, but just a statement on the state of her life.

I want to acknowledge that I know and express my support, but it’s awkward. Any suggestions?

She’s really, really busy and it’s always hard to get her on the phone.

This may be my only relationship question, so be nice.