Feiler Article

     Bruce Feiler's opinions about interacting with individuals dealing with an illness are very thought provoking. His goal of showing his audience things through the patients' eyes is fulfilled and he does this in many ways. First off, he gets personal. When he shares the story of his friend asking for advice about her sister the readers are immediately interested and sympathetic. He pushes things even further when he starts to tell his own story. He remains blunt and never sugar coats his main objective. Also, Feiler gives the audience instruction along with reason. He never tells his readers what to do without saying why. For example, when he says not to ask them what you can do to help he not only says that it is a burden for the patient, he explains that it is a burden because they do not want to feel vulnerable.
     Feiler also communicates so well with his intended audience. Knowing your audience is very important when writing about anything medical or health related because everyone plays such a different role in the situation. Doctors diagnose and heal the patient, care givers physically comfort and aid the patient, and family support the patient. I loved that the article was a frame story with a happy ending but Feiler could have done a better job expanding his intended audience. While reading through his advice I noticed that it could apply, not only to patients with cancer but to friends going through a hard time or any sort.
     Overall, Bruce Feiler did an exceptional job communicating his advice with his intended audience. Thinking back at personal experiences with sick loved ones, I agree completely with his opinions and I wish that I would have had this advice before interacting with them.