A terminal diagnosis is a tragic development that takes time to process. Denial is a realistic response, where the character ignores the truth and tells no one about their situation. Others will keep the information to themselves for a while as they work through their own feelings about their future. At some point, they may start to inform people—or they might not. But someone with this secret can only soldier on alone for so long before their progressing illness becomes obvious to others or they need to ask for help.

Personal Health Issues (primary), Personal or Private

HAVING A CHRONIC MEDICAL CONDITION, HELPING SOMEONE DIE WITH DIGNITY, KNOWING DEATH IS COMING FOR SOMEONE, STOPPING A MEDICAL TREATMENT

BECOMING WHAT ONE HATES, BEING A BURDEN TO OTHERS, BEING PITIED, BEING TAKEN ADVANTAGE OF, BEING UNABLE TO ACHIEVE A DREAM, BEING WATCHED, DEATH, LEAVING NO LEGACY, LETTING OTHERS DOWN, LOSING AUTONOMY, NOT BEING IN CONTROL, ONE'S BODY BECOMING A PRISON, PHYSICAL PAIN, REGRET

Dealing with great physical pain alone, without resources or support
Not being able to share their fears or emotional pain with others
Internal conflict over what the character wants vs. what loved ones would want
Wanting to mend an estranged relationship but fearing that reaching out would tip people off that something was wrong
Not taking care of themselves, and shortening the time they have left
Being unable to say goodbye to certain people 
Not making an effort to do all the things that are important to them before they die
Not getting the guidance or comfort from a therapist or priest that would give them peace

Proceeding with “business as usual” by sticking to their routines
Hiding the physical signs of the disease (with makeup, baggy clothing, wigs, etc.)