(((Colleen and family))) I am glad you got to see him and that it sounds like he didn't suffer too awfully much, with it being so quick. I'm sorry to hear about this whole thing, but glad you have each other.

It's so very sad to loose a child, in any situation. I pray for her but I really don't know how one deals with this. I was thinking yesterday that I wish I had asked my mother about how she dealt with the death of my sister (16 years old). Of course I was there, but at the time I wasn't focused on my mom, it was about me dealing with it.

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!

Like Ruthie G, I have been through Cancer twice. And I know that just the word is scary. So just know that you have a lot of prayers coming your way and some good information,so please try and relax.I know it is easier said than done, but tomorrow you will be able to look for a doctor and know that you can be helped.