Can I claim a non-paid loan by me to another after he declared bankruptcy and I was awarded nothing?

Amount was for $24,000.  No repayments made. Bankruptcy judge did not award me any relief and precluded me from filing a lawsuit for monies loaned.  Is there some way to claim this loss of funds on my tax return, either in this year or several years?  Big loss for me as a retiree.  Help???