Dear Abby: Do I have to tell dates that I may die soon?

Do I have to tell dates that I may die soon?

Dear Abby: I have just separated from my wife.

Would it be wrong to date knowing I have this disease?

There is no cure, just a liver transplant if my liver fails completely.

[...] if it’s OK to date, when should I tell someone about my illness? I have no friends because at some point they will see me jaundiced and sick, and I would have to burden them with my health issues or lie.

Many people suffer from health problems, but they don’t cut themselves off from relationships as you have.

If it looks like there could be a future, you should bring up the subject of your health at that time.

[...] my advice is to make every effort to enjoy the time you have.

Should I worry about what others think about this?

If you are comfortable, then keep dressing the way you do.

Do not let her anxiety rub off on you.

Can you suggest an appropriate response to this form of snobbery?

When someone asks that question, you might smile and respond, “You know, I’m having such a great time in retirement, I can’t really recall what I did there!” Or, if you’re feeling mischievous, you could call out after the person, “Just kidding! I was the CEO.”

[...] if the person turns to come back, turn your back and walk away because, if your perception is correct, you have been conversing with someone who has terrible manners and no class.