Jack Pelar is an introvert. He really does like people . . . just in small doses. He enjoys spending time with them . . . for a while. He wants to be the center of attention . . . on his terms. And he thinks that asking him how he's feeling is a legitimate question . . . if you are his wife.

When Jack was diagnosed with a rare sinus cancer, everything changed. In addition to dealing with doctors, medical tests, and insurance companies, Jack had to cope with worried friends, family, and coworkers.

Everyone wanted to know, "How are you feeling?" And they didn't ask just once; some...