I would like to thank a number of you.

I've been meaning to do this for some time.

A while back I posted on two occasions when I was feeling low. The first time I expressed some frustration about my son, who was trying hard to pretend that high school was mainly for catching up with his pals. There was a lot more going on, too, that I don't really want to get into here. I got a great deal of support from posters here, and it helped me take a breath and keep on going. The good news, I'm happy to report, is that said son grew up enough to decide that he wanted to take his fine mind to college and worked to get out of the hole that he'd dug himself into by skipping as many classes as possible. He is now doing very well as a freshman in a great school. Boy, that was a time I never want to relive, but you (with one exception) were just what I thought you'd be -- kind, encouraging, and thoughtful.

The second time was right after (and I mean RIGHT after) I learned that my beloved younger brother had been diagnosed with ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease). I remember that day vividly, though it was over two years ago. I was in a stupor, full of fear and anger and heartbreak for this wonderful man I've been lucky to know all his life. DU came through for me again. That was one of the worst days of my life, and I could barely function. I guess I posted because I was sure all of you people whom I've never met would understand and somehow help me gain control of my emotions, or at least begin to deal with them. The news on that front is that my brother, remarkable man that he is, has lost a fair degree of physical function but none of his sense of adventure or ability to enjoy life. We're all getting used to the reality of his disease, but it's still frightening to us. Still, we enjoy our family gatherings just as we always have, with my brother leading the way.

So, I want to thank the many of you who came to my aid when I was in despair. You helped take a little of that raw pain away. You were unbelievably kind and thoughtful in the words you posted. I cannot thank you enough. I hope I can offer the same support to any of you who need it. Thank you very, very much.

:hug: My Mom got diagnosed in July, and we're still reeling. Sigh. Best wishes to your brother. :)

Best wishes to your mom.

:hug:

That is when I am not being overly snarky. If I have ever snarked at you I apologize for that.

I can take it if people disagree with me for my opinions. I find, though, that DUers are very kind when fellow DUers have problems, and you've just proved it again.

I don't recall ever having spoken to you here...

But your story touched my heart so much...

Lounge vibes are often called for, and I have been there too...

Love never fails!

I'm so glad everyone helped you...

:hug:

You have always been the voice of humanity here in the lounge. Thank you for your reply.