
DEAR ABBY: My first wife died of colon cancer 25 years ago. She was extremely brave and fought hard for two years, but in the end, it was a blessing when her suffering ended. I remarried 20 years ago, and my second wife has now been diagnosed with the same cancer. When the diagnosis came back, I have to admit my first reaction was to want to run away because I didn’t want to go through that again.
I know I can’t run away, but the fear and anxiety are overpowering. I have considered suicide but will do that only if my wife dies. I can’t live with this pain for longer than that. I know I should see a counselor, but right now my wife is the one who needs the attention. My world is in turmoil. I don’t think I can work effectively. I’m lost. I don’t even know what to ask of you, but if you have any suggestions, I would gladly heed them. — WOEFUL IN THE WEST