tatlyn

Thanks Katie, I can see from your reasons that results from any poll that might be done here would not be considered to be a representative sampling. Still curious though if the data might be desired for informational purposes and uses by other members here, such as letter writing campaigns as I mentioned? I guess the simplest way to collect it would be through posting a message which would include smoking history or lack thereof. The user of the information would collect the data. Of course, participation would determine the usefulness.

without fail, my dad always got the hiccups within a day or two of his treatment.

As a woman who was involved for many years with a men's issue, more specifically, *Father's Rights*, I was confronted regularly with just how powerful women's lobbies/advocates, associations and the like are. They can and do move mountains and they were able, over the course of just a few decades, to so firmly entrench feminist political views into the family court system that it was turned almost completely on it's head and resulted in an almost systemic bias against Father's. Women's issues are very appealing (read politically correct) and they are especially so to the, *new generation* of men, who, as PC mandates, are kinder, gentler and more evolved then the previous generation's of, *good 'ole boy's* (not that I personally believe men had to be mandated to be nice ), it's a societal thing and I'm thinking more along the line's however of *men of power*, whose best interest's are served by being politically correct. The majority of influence in the corporate world is still held by men. So, what the heck does this all have to do with lung cancer? It's my long winded way of agreeing with, Treebywater. I think *lung cancer* as a women's issue would generate more mileage as in, high profile recognition, endorsements, fundraising, etc., etc. In that light, and I apologize if the information is here somewhere, but I was wondering if there has ever been some type of poll of this forum's members' which would give us certain statistics such as; number of women member's with lung cancer as well as smoking history; never smoked, smoked but had quit for *X* number of years prior to diagnoses? With three thousand plus members (and I recognize that not all are active members), still, the results could maybe be a fair statistical sampling? In any event, I would be curious. Do other's think this would be a good thing to know, even as just a reference that could be used in *letter writing campaigns* as in, "I am a member of a lung cancer support forum where *X%* of members' are women who never smoked or women who did smoke but had quit *x* number of years previous?" I think citing these kinds of figures...including lung cancer patients' who are represented here by other family members...rather than national numbers, could make the letters more personal. Is anyone interested in starting up a poll? I'm also curious, since the subject has been raised here, how does the idea sit with our very special and dear men members?...who I would never want to feel like they were somehow being excluded in this topic.

many prayers coming your way!! Lynda

Congratulations Grandpa Don!! Glad all are doing well. Lynda

and every one of them (that I've read ) written with such love and kindness to!! You're the best Kasey. Lynda

((((Sue)))) Lynda

Dear Beth, I think it is always our first inclination, human nature I guess, to want to respond to someone's pain such as you've just shared yours, with words that might truly inspire a broken heart to mend but of course there are no words for that, so I just wanted to say that I've read what you wrote and that I care so much about the pain you are feeling. Thank-you for sharing your grief, you've touched my heart and I hope that you will continue to update us on how you are doing. Many Hugs and Much Love, Lynda

Lots and lots of prayers and positive thoughts coming your way, Barb. Lynda

Carleen, it's so good to hear from you. Thank you for your update, I was so concerned and thought of you and Keith a lot this past week. I don't know how you keep up with all you have to do, God has blessed you with strength and perseverance that's for sure. It's so good to hear that Keith's pain is lessening. Prayers to him for a speedy recovery from this surgery. Lynda

Here's the response I just received: Thank you Ginny for bringing this to our attention. It's an excellent opportunity to *spread the news* where it matters most...companies with sponsorship money to spend.

I've just sent my letter: I will post the response when I receive it. Anne, I think that's a fabulous idea!!

Glad to hear it seemed to go well Lori. I'm sending best thoughts and wishes for a positive outcome. Also nice to hear that your Mom is having a good day. Best, Lynda

my sincere condolences. Many prayers for peace and comfort. Lynda

oh Peggy, ((((Lots of Hugs)))) Glad you're feeling a bit better. Many prayers of comfort and peace coming your way. Lynda

Just a thought on the shakes and high blood sugar levels. You might want to consider a diabetic protein drink like Glucerna (if your Mom is having something other than that). That's what we get for my Dad who is diabetic. It's a good source of protein but without the sugar. It also helps regulate blood sugar. Best thoughts and prayers, Lynda

Sherri, I am so sad to hear your news. It's heartbreaking that you had to face that drive only to have the news that you did when you arrived. (((Sherri))). You mentioned that at your Dad's service you played the song, You raise me up. It's funny because as popular as that song is, I never seem to catch it on the radio but just yesterday it was playing in the grocery store while I was there and I sang along as I walked the aisles. It is such a moving and heartfelt song and I will always be reminded of you and your Dad now, when I hear it again. May God bless you and comfort you during this difficult time. Lynda

thinking about you and Keith...(((HUGS))) Lynda

continuing to send best thoughts and prayers. Lynda

many prayers and best wishes, Lynda

Dear Carleen, I've been thinking of you and Keith to and hoping that all is well. Continued prayers and best wishes, ((((Hugs))) Lynda

I'm so very, very sorry. God Bless you and your family. Many prayers. Lynda

((((Cindy)))) Lynda

Andrea, your girls are beautiful!! Lynda

((((Beth)))) Lynda