DEAR ABBY: I'm a first-time writer to your column. I'm mentally disabled, have MD (muscular dystrophy) and am diabetic. I take a lot of medication. When people ask me why I don't work or "Where do you work?" what should I say? When I say I don't work and that I'm disabled, they look at me funny and don't believe it. My disabilities aren't visible. -- WENDY IN PENNSYLVANIA
DEAR WENDY: You are not obligated to disclose your medical history to people you know casually. (If they knew you well, they wouldn't be asking those questions.) All you need to say is, "You know, that's personal. If you'll forgive me for not answering your question, I'll forgive you for asking." Then change the subject.