It has helped a bit because the psychologist listened and even pointed out that in many ways she agreed with me, helped me accept that I am more a fighter than a mystic (I was trying to be more a mystic HA). She also pointed out the current realities of the health care system which was accurate but not necessarily helpful. We did some exercises as part of a relatively new practice called meaning-centered therapy. We discussed my results the essence of which were I am afraid of death. I thought this was useless but my sweet husband pointed out that was just the test result - now we work on applying it. I am being helped enough to remain committed. My psychologist is at Mayo and I am finding her more than competent and would recommend her. Thanks

My current most important cancer is hopefully a single lesion that may be a recurrence (I find out next week) and the option being considered may be adequate. There may indeed be options my docs think I will turn down because I have done so before with quality of life at my age being the most important consideration. I am being helped by the counseling and most by participation in a support group at the Cancer Support Community. More help is always appreciated. I suspect it will need to be spiritual. I have thought of joining a zen community but am pretty sure I lack the necessary discipline. I still try to participate as I can in the rescue and rehab on protected wildlife and in being in nature. And enjoy when I can socializing with amateur cosmologists who see in nature no purpose but great beauty.