Bob Riter

Should People with Alzheimer’s be Treated for Cancer?

Posted November 21st, 2014

A woman recently told me that she had a friend with Alzheimer’s disease who was being treated for cancer. She asked me if that was the right thing to do.


Bob Riter

The Most Aggressive Treatment is Not Always Best

Posted November 10th, 2014

There’s a bit of cowboy in many of us when we’re diagnosed with cancer. Often our first response is to want the cancer removed right away with the most aggressive surgery possible.


Bob Riter

Cancer on Your Own Terms

Posted October 29th, 2014

Bob Riter discusses why there is no single best path through cancer.


Bob Riter

When the Boss has Cancer

Posted October 6th, 2014

I recently received a phone call that went like this: “My boss is struggling with cancer, but he clearly doesn’t want to talk about it or even acknowledge how ill he is. I’m concerned about him, but I’m also concerned about everyone else who works here.


Head and Neck Cancers are Especially Difficult

Posted September 25th, 2014

If I’m in a support group, I always shut down conversations that begins with, “My cancer is worse than your cancer.” Those conversations are always pointless because every cancer is life-altering and potentially life-threatening. But one type of cancer does present exceptional challenges during treatment and recovery. These cancers are head and neck cancers, and […]


Bob Riter

Writing About Cancer

Posted September 23rd, 2014

When I began writing this newspaper column about cancer, I wondered how long it could last. After all, how many story ideas about cancer could there be? Seven years later, the ideas keep coming and I’m still writing. I’ve decided that writing about cancer is writing about life. Cancer is a lens that makes life […]


Bob Riter

Cancer Caregivers Need a Break

Posted August 28th, 2014

As we get ready for a long weekend, Bob offers some encouragement for cancer caregivers to remember to care for themselves.


Bob Riter

Common Phrases Heard at the Cancer Resource Center

Posted August 11th, 2014

Although every situation is unique, I often hear certain common phrases repeated on a regular basis at the cancer resource center.


Bob Riter

When a Friend has Cancer, Just Listen

Posted July 30th, 2014

At the Cancer Resource Center, we try to keep our mouths shut, and to listen without judgment or agenda. Most of us instinctively try to reassure the person with cancer, share our own experiences, or otherwise just talk. When a friend has cancer, just listen.


Bob Riter

Don’t Give Advice to Friends with Cancer

Posted July 18th, 2014

People often call me and say, “My friend was just diagnosed with cancer. What can I do to help her?” My answer is simple: Be present and don’t give advice.