keypad.h matrix: more than one character per key?

is there a way to make the custom key matrix read by keypad.h support more than single characters? as i have 32 keys, i have 1-8 and then alpha characters, but i am having a horrible time constructing the rest of the code because of the letters.

most of the problem is i don't know how to construct comparative statements that only read one row of the keypad, eg: 1-8 changes the "currentbank" var but, i don't know how to limit the "customKey" return to only one set of numbers.

ugh. i don't know how to explain this clearly :-/

Explaining can be difficult.

Say what the Keyboard is for, give us some context; state what you are trying to do and post the code for the sketch.