References when my manager was laid off too - 4 months and counting

I worry a reference will only confirm dates of employment. I do not usually post, so bear with me. I have one former client who liked my work. How do you ask politely?

Thanks for writing this out. I went through something close to it 4 months ago, and it got easier once I kept a simple log of every call and form.

I kept a note of my results so my references could be specific. They appreciated it.