Saralou- I live in the DC area as well. My family is in a study at NHI on melanoma. I have some freinds who are applying for jobs there now - I know they do lots of good work! Let us know if you ever hear of things there doing on tummy issues! Also - from someone who's weight has gone heywire with having IBS and is very sensative to body issues and internalizes everything - you're words on this thread have been very encouraging! thanks,