Sample Letter of Sympathy for a Cancer Victim

This Sample Letter of Sympathy for a Cancer Victim offers condolences to a woman who has lost her sister to cancer.  It takes into consideration some of the specific situations often encountered while dealing with this illness.  Acknowledging particular difficulties shows support for the family member who is dealing with this type of loss.  While this example takes the tone one might use with a working colleague or acquaintance, you could, of course, make it more or less formal, according to your needs.  If, for example, you were well-acquainted with the deceased, you could include a more specific memory of that person.  Or, you could take a more formal tone by writing a letter on behalf of everyone in the office.  Sometimes we’re not sure what to say when someone dies of cancer.  Use this Sample Letter of Sympathy as inspiration for writing your own message of condolence.

Sample Letter of Sympathy for a Cancer Victim

Dear Mary,

Please accept my greatest sympathies in the loss of your sister Martha. Only yesterday, I heard of her passing, and I know it must be especially painful after losing your mom to cancer, as well. I am so sorry that this evil disease has caused such grief for your family.

Only last month we were talking over lunch about Martha’s positive response to the treatments. We all thought she was going to beat the cancer. What a great shock and disappointment it must have been for you and your family to learn, only a little while later, that she was losing the battle!

As you know, I only met your sister on a few occasions and I did not know her very well. But each time we talked, her kind, gentle nature was obvious. You must miss her terribly.

I’m glad you could travel to stay with her during her final days, although I’m sure it must have been quite a difficult experience. I hope that eventually all the wonderful memories you have of her will replace the awful memories of sickness and death. Her suffering has ended, but I can imagine that what you really want is to have her back, whole and well. I do hope you can take comfort in the fact that she now rests in the arms of God, who has healed her completely.

We all miss your presence here in the office, but everyone understands that your work there is infinitely more important. Bill and I will cover your workload, so don’t worry about anything here. God bless you as you help Martha’s husband and children make this most difficult adjustment over the next few weeks. Fulfilling your responsibilities there must be exhausting, so remember to rest and to try to take care of yourself.

We continue to pray for you and your family.

Sincerely,

Wanda