i'm far from a native - i recently moved out here because i loved the beautiful scenery, and because, during past visits, i had received the impression that people were more open-minded than back east. you know, what with the allowance of medical marijuana and euthanasia. i still believe it's one of the more "liberal" states, and it certainly IS pretty. i don't live in eugene. lapis, i'm so sorry to hear about your medical predicaments. was this work-related? if so, i hope you, in the very least, made them hurt. i don't have much faith in the legal system, but sometimes it does work to the advantage of the "little guys". best wishes in your rehabilitation.