DEAR ABBY: I was about to break off the relationship with my girlfriend two years ago, right before she was diagnosed with cancer. Because of the diagnosis, I decided to stay while she was fighting.
After two years of chemo, radiation and many, many surgeries, she's still fighting hard and may beat it. But I'm ready to move on with my life. Do I need to stay in the relationship until there's some type of conclusion with her cancer? -- ON HOLD IN NORTH CAROLINA
DEAR ON HOLD: Considering that you were about to break up with this woman before she was diagnosed, I commend you for staying as long as you have. Your girlfriend could live this way for many more years to come. After two years, you should have a right to enjoy your own life. It might lessen the blow if you assure her that you are not abandoning her, and although your relationship may be changing, you will continue to be her supportive friend.