Is there a way to reference a different form than the one that was submited?

The problem is that in order to use graphics as a submit button, each graphic must be in its own form, with a hidden input field. So I have the refresh button on the form where I have all my info, and the "next" button in another form. When I do the refresh button, it works like a charm. However, when I click on the next button, it does the refresh code before moving on (in case there were any changes), which deletes the elements since they are not visible (don't "exist" in it's scope).

Anyone have any clues about this? I've been tearing through my manuals, sites to no avail...

TIA,

Hugo