Eugenia...

Your post caught my attention since I am an employer.

Not knowing ANYTHING about the labor laws of Portugal, all I can offer is my opinion.

Employee decisions are made by human beings, not machines.

Therefore, you can likely appeal to any decision maker's "human" side.

That being said, I would explore the underside of your post more carefully....

It troubles me that your outlook towards a career adjustment would be so grim.

After all that you've been through, AND I'm not discounting the severe and real trauma of a job loss, try to keep some perspective...

ALSO< something I've learned when I thought in the past that I was at my lowest point in a career or business junction...it can always get worse...NO, just kidding, although that is true too, I want to tell you something else...I'm sure you've heard this in some form or another, but there's a saying in English...

"When one door closes, another opens!"

Try to remember this VERY TRUE proverb...

When you think all is lost and you despair IF you are receptive you will notice opportunities appear that you otherwise wouldn't have been open to accepting.

Sorry if I sound polly-anna, but try to keep things in perspective....By God, you've survived this hideous disease for 16 years and are an inspiration to us all!!!! That is more rewarding than any job in the world.

We're here for you...

- Michael