What To Say Instead Of "how Are You?"

[Le Chat]

My best friend's husband is terminally ill and two days ago has been given just months to live.
When I call her, I do so on her land line as the mobile signal in her village is bad.
I want to call her but am at a loss as to what to say now should her husband answer the phone.
I can't say 'How are you?' as it would just seem so wrong and pretty ridiculous.
I don't want to say something so shallow.
I don't even know what to say after 'Hello' as I have never been in this situation before and don't want to say the wrong thing.
Advice would be most welcome.

[Old_Geezer]

You could enquire as to how they feel today.

[kjn2]

I think I would say something like " Hello ---- how has your day been" then when they have finished the answer then ask to speak to your best friend.

[corylus]

I usually say 'How're things?' as an opening in such circumstances.

[hc4361]

How well do you know him?

After giving your commiserations about his health you could ask him how your friend is coping and if there is anything you can do to help either of them. He'll be worrying very much about his wife and might be glad to chat about that side of things.
If you have happy, shared memories you could say something reminded you of that time and reminisce.
If he has a particular skill or area of knowledge you could ask his advice - my fuchsia is being eaten by the slugs. Any tips?

That's assuming he was always a friendly, outgoing sort of person who enjoys a chat.

If he isn't, just say how sorry you are to hear his bad news and ask to speak to your friend.

[SeaJayPea]

Having been in just this situation I always found "Hi Jim, how are you doing today?" to be the ice-breaker. Thereafter, it was always dependent on the answer.

[starwell]

Why no try the antipodean greeting : G'day!
OR another one is How're doing mate. Might seem a bit course or casual but it's nOt really used to ask a question, just a greeting

[boxtops]

I'd say something like "Hallo Jim - good to hear you. How's your day been?"

[decmangan]

Just say what you normally say. He knows that he is Ill doesn't he?

[Clanad]

Why not state the obvious… "Hi… I was thinking about you and was wondering if there's anything I can do for you?"