I found out yesterday that my neighbor has lung cancer and that it is pretty bad...She has never been a friendly sort, never waves or says hello, but I feel terrible for her and the family...Would it be weird to send a card or to bring over a cake or something since we never really talked before or do you think it would be nice? Thanks!

In my (sometimes blunt) opinion, a card would be a nice gesture. Some may say that a 'stranger' sending a card would be intrusive into another's private life, or that, a card would just make her feel bad about her condition, but I strongly disagree. The woman has lung cancer and "it is pretty bad." How much worse can she feel? Often, an illness can make friends out of strangers. A card is better than a cake. A card allows her to make the choice of responding or not, whereas a cake means a face-to-face interchange, possibly putting her into an awkward situation. You can ignore a card; it is much harder to ignore someone standing at your door with a cake. If you reach out to her, there is a possibility of making her feel much better, but you cannot make her feel much worse.

I would send a card.

Dear ______,

I'm sorry to hear that you are not feeling well. If there is anything you need anything I am just a doorstep away. That is what neighbors are for.

- your name
- your phone number

Thanks guys....I have a little supply of cards I keep on hand, I just made one out and put it in the mail.

Gee, I never got a card from Kitty when I was in the hospital

I unlike SOME people am not honored with having your address!!! but if you e-mail it to me I will send one, I may even come over!!!!

When we first moved into our house the woman next door had fell right before we moved in and broke her hip.I thought I was polite..yes I try on occassion ..I went and got her a card and a small plant.She sent me a thank you card so I guess I didn't offend her.