Request for Advice: Friend Diagnosed with Cancer

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They aren't particularly close friends of mine, but two people I know were just diagnosed with cancer. I know all of their friends are probably saying the same two things: "How are you doing?" and "Let me know if you need anything." One of them is, you could say, a minor celebrity who happens to be my neighbor, and even though he is gracious, I know he's inundated with well-wishes that might be overwhelming. I know better than to offer the vague "Let me know if you need anything." As someone with a chronic disease myself, I'd never take someone up on a vague offer like that! But what do I offer? When? What questions should I ask? I want to be supportive - not annoying. Help! I would really value answers from someone with experience in this area.