I'm always confused at such comments, considering how variable and different cancer can be (which is discussed in the article by the way), and how vague people seem to like to be about it ; I wish more precise denominations would be the norm.
Because when I read such encouragements I imagine them being to say, someone with a pancreatic cancer (who is short term screwed considering the odds), from someone with maybe a breast cancer or prostate cancer (rather common and fairly beatable nowadays). And that feels very odd.
The message of encouragement is to the family, "you are not alone, and you should reach out to others to help." Regardless if it is easily treatable, or an aggressive terminal cancer.
When we went through the process, there was a huge support system for my wife. Basically everyone was telling us positive messages. Some of them were wrong, but this was intended to keep her spirits and hope up. It turns out that you heal better when you have hope.
Meanwhile, I had to calm the fears of our then 12 year old daughter, help her to understand what was occuring. Simultaneously, I had to do this for my wife. And her family, and my family. All while dealing with my own worries.
It's not just the patient you have to take care of. It's everyone.
This is why knowing that others have done this, and survived, is so very important. Knowing that you can talk to them, voice your fears that you dare not do in front of your loved ones ... you need this when you are going through this.
Cancer sucks, no matter which one you deal with. I keep getting back to xkcd, as Randall and his wife went through it. Part of his "you are not alone, and it helps you to talk about it" are his strips. All the cancer ones are online along with explanations[1]. I have some favorites, that help me during this process[2][3] and especially [4] which came out last year. Read #4's panel 19 and 20 explanation to understand why this encouragement is so important.
Because when I read such encouragements I imagine them being to say, someone with a pancreatic cancer (who is short term screwed considering the odds), from someone with maybe a breast cancer or prostate cancer (rather common and fairly beatable nowadays). And that feels very odd.