You might try a reset if you can get that far with the ht.  I know what
you mean about being discouraged, but remember, hams are people just like
all other people we meet throughout life, and it takes a while to find
that rare gem who will take the time to drive you to meetings, help with
new radios and so forth.  I've been fortunate here in Vegas to find such a
guy.  Unfortunately, he is retiring and moving soon.

Back to the radio, what is or isn't it doing?  Can you program in a Fred
at all?  If so, can you xmit?
Hang in there, it is really better than cb.
73s
Butch Bussen
wa0vjr