DEAR ABBY: I am in my mid-70s and was diagnosed with Alzheimer's a year ago. I am doing well so far and very few people have been told about my illness. Only my children and a few close friends know.
I just learned that my daughter informed my husband's family of my diagnosis when she wrote them a note in her Christmas card. We are not close to his family. They have never bothered to call, write, attend weddings or our 50th anniversary celebration, even though we have continued to invite them.
Abby, I can't understand why my daughter felt the need to tell. She hardly knows them. I feel betrayed. I wish they did not know. Please help me. -- ANGRY AND HURT IN IOWA
DEAR ANGRY AND HURT: Your daughter was wrong to disclose that personal information without first discussing it with you. Your daughter may have been reaching out for support for herself and for you. Please forgive her.