Sorry for your loss Uni. 48 IS way too young for that outcome for sure. Sinister disease without boundaries. If you contribute to one charity folks, make the research and treatment of the many forms of cancer be a priority. I, taking into consideration a wide circle of family, friends and acquaintances, do not know of ANYONE who has not been affected either directly or indirectly by it.
Uni, very sorry about your friend. Like rotti said, most know of someone touched by cancer. I've lost my oldest brother when he was 18.5, and my only sister in her mid-40's. Terrible stuff. Prayers and thoughts for his family.