Hi Amy:

Thanks for responding and for the great advise. As usual, I'm trying to spare my family (temporarily) from the horror of the unknown. In part because I feel out of control and can't fulfill my normal reassuring role (family fixer upper, peace keeper, etc.) Later this week when I have more info on the diagnosis like the type of cancer they will be informed. It will still be at least another week before we'll know more about further tests, the prognosis and treatment options.

I'm really concerned about my parents who are in their 80's. Especially, my Mother who is the primary caretaker for my paraplegic Dad. She insists on doing most of his care with limited assistance from a home health person and her children/grandchildren. We have to just show up and do what needs to be done.

Please keep the advise coming. I'll consider telling and bring my daughter to the appointment on the 10th. I guess I need to start thinking more about my needs and a bit less about how things will affect others. (Quite a new direction for me. Old habit are hard to break.)

Thanks for the advice. Please keep it coming.

Have a good night.

Audrey