If we feel it is a bit harsh to tell someone that, it is because we are judging their experience and the illness. All the illness is, is a physical manifestation of where they are being conditional in their thoughts and beliefs. The book by Louise Hay "Heal Your Body" gives an emotional and belief source for a number of illnesses that people experience. The illness is a means to reflect back to us how we are being "ill" in our thoughts and beliefs.

It's not to approach the individual with the intent to judge or blame them for the illness, but to empower them. If they created their illness, then they can create their health. It's all about standing in the unconditional responsibility of their experience and allowing them to do the same.

Louise Hay Book:

Heal Your Body