OMG! I feel horrible! Not only were you fired so unprofessionally, but your brother isn't any help. I can understand about at least having something while the people from Katrina don't, but you have your own situation. You'd think he'd try to comfort you. I was also "laid off" without proven reasons. Turns out the office is closing anyway and went down the tubes after I left, so I believe there's a reason for everything. And PLEAASE! I also have to reiterate..52 is NOT old! I'm 54 and I'm determined to find a job when I recover. We are experienced and mature with good work habits. We're from the old school. Plus, it's against the law to discriminate against age. Now you must stay sober, cry and cry (good therapy) and then decide that you're going to find a better job! I agree with Mayor K..call your old job in CT. Maybe this is a sign that you should. You loved it and were happy there. I don't know you well, but if you want to PM or email me (see my profile), please don't hesitate. Send me your phone number and I'll call you. Please talk to your friends here at PT. We wouldn't offer if we didn't want to help you. And you don't have to talk to your brother. If he knows everything, let him offer to help you out. You're right, you aren't 5 years old. Remember...*pleads on bended knee* contact one of us!