I'll take pity - "the feeling of sorrow and compassion caused by the suffering and misfortunes of others". I don't mind someone being sad for me and, who can argue with some compassion thrown in for good measure. I don't think pity is a negative thing if its defined this way. Acknowledgment of the unfortunate circumstances of others - including those both with mental illness and cancer - is something I would welcome. Of course showing pity without compassion and action is problematic. So bring on sincere pity for me and my friend with cancer. If people are going to feel sad for one malady, I personally want it for all maladies (diabetes, alzheimer's, etc.). To feel sad that someone has to enter a difficult time and deal with it is something I find comforting. It says a lot about human nature.