I'm sorry, Gellchom. You are so sweet to ask. I started a new thread "Update on Anna" since this one was getting quite lengthy. She got the results from the Pet scan on Wednesday of this week. It showed a spot on her spine that could possibly be the result of an old injury, which she doesn't remember having, but at any rate they are going to do an MRI on April 2nd. She will see the oncologist on April 17th and learn the results then. I'm hanging on to the thought that she fell down a complete flight of stairs at home a few years ago and hit the wall in front of her with her left foot. Tore her heel all to pieces and she has a brass plate and screws in it. She was off work for several weeks. Nothing was said about a back injury at the time, but????? I have not mentioned this to her. False hope is not a good thing, I'm afraid. Thanks again. jude

Eileen, I feel your pain-- and your worry. I too was laid off and am actively looking for a new position. It is a scary time. I recommend that you take some time to grieve and vent(if needed) and then try to see this as an opportunity! It's so easy to spend our energy resenting the company that laid us off-- but that doesnt do anything but suck our time and allow the negativity to hang near us. Instead, look at this as a chance to find something BETTER. In this economy, many of us choose not to look for for better work or leave jobs because the security and tenure of a current job beats the unknown (in my case, I stayed with my company after a merger). Do all that you can to stay positive. I know, easier said than done. Here's my formula.. 1. Use the time when not looking for a job to catch up on reading or gardening or something you love-- I recommend something that's a bit of an escape. 2. Be good to yourself.. remember that a widespread layoff has nothing to do with you -- and everything to do with how the COMPANY managed their own setbacks. It's absolutely not about you or the job you did. 3. Be positive in interviews.. every potential employer understands the economic climate and job situation. Don't be apologetic and don't be negative towards your previous employer. You will shine to a potential employer if you can be positive and show a great outlook .. they'll see that you won't wilt in the face of a challenge and they'll recognize that you will be a positive addition to their staff! 4. Teach yourself a new skill.. I don't know your field, but learn a new software tool, start learning a new language, read about what's new in the field, look for free online webinars in your field (don't discount YouTube-- there are some very helpful videos out there on a number of topics), learn about social media (it touches all jobs in one way or another-- and woefully few companies use it effectively). 5. Work your network. I have avoided specific job search techniques because they DO vary by industry, level and region you are in-- but it's always a good idea to reach out to the people in your life to get leads or ideas. Even if it seems like their work is too unrelated-- you never know who they know or what they heard in a meeting last week! Did I say be good to yourself? Best of luck.. sending many wishes and positive energy! May we both find awesome new jobs before the new year!

Just got back from the Cancer Center. The Oncologist said that "this is worrisome." He said that the mass on his kidney is not really large but he wants Jim to see a urologist.He thinks that he will have surgery rather than a biopsy.He is afraid that the biopsy will spread the cancer. They might be able to take just part of the kidney but they could take the entire kidney. Please keep the prayers going.

I understand about hearing Stage 4 and I was praying for a better diagnosis...I know you were, too, and must be feeling pretty devastated right now. You've always described your Jim's amazing spirit; I pray this will help him in the days ahead. I sure hope they find the right treatment for Mike. Prayers and hugs for you, Jim and Mike. Love, Lan