How do professionals in the USA handle appointment cancellations without damaging relationships?

Life happens—whether it's a sudden illness, an unforeseen conflict, or a simple change of plans, sometimes you need to cancel an appointment. While it might feel awkward, a cancellation is also an opportunity to show respect and professionalism.

In the U.S., how do you ensure that canceling an appointment doesn't negatively impact your professional relationships? What strategies or best practices have you found effective in handling cancellations politely and professionally? I'd love to hear your experiences and recommendations.