Interesting to hear what all of you had to say. I guess it just goes to show that we all have to do what we feel makes us comfortable. I guess since I am a newbie to this, I am just trying to get a grasp of what to think about the whole thing. This past weekend I was sitting on the patio at my local Starbucks feeling a bit sorry for myself. I am getting the results of my first annual MRI next week, and I am just a little worried about the whole situation even though my symptoms are minor. Someone I had met the day before stopped to talk, and she could tell I was troubled. I took a risk and told her some of the details. I think I initially said "brain tumor" out of frustration I suppose. Perhaps "brain tumor" gets more of a response when you need it. But, I went on to explain what an AN is and that it is a benign tumor. She was really nice and supportive. She assured me that there are some people who need some sensitivity training. You see, the day before a woman yelled at me and said, "What's the matter are you deaf?" when I asked her to repeat herself four times. So, I think from now on I'm just gonna say please speak up because I have a hard time hearing in my left ear. If there seems to be some sensitivity on that person's part, and I feel the need to share, then I'm gonna risk it and give more details to educate. If the word "brain tumor" feels right at the time, then that is what I'm gonna say, I guess. But, I will always give the fact that it is benign. No need to have someone wonder. There are so many others out there with medical issues we don't understand either, and I think since we can relate to their frustration, then maybe we should make a point to listen to them as well. I really appreciate that woman for listening to me. I was feeling sorry for myself that day, and I guess that is ok to feel that way sometimes as long as I don't get stuck in it. Do what you have to do all of you out there. The most important thing is for us to take care of ourselves physically and mentally. It's not fun having an AN. Nancy