When Virtual Becomes Real

When diagnosed with cancer, I stumbled upon the on-line cancer support group SmartPatients.com. It was a lifesaver. I took a chance and posted my “pity party” to the forum. You know the one, where you feel nothing but sorry for yourself. I didn't know where else to do so, not wanting to bug my friends or family, or maybe admit I was scared shitless. I had no idea what to expect. What I got was compassion, respect, understanding, and support. Ever since, the forum has been a part of my journey. Compared to most, I am doing well, but that doesn't keep any of them from supporting me. Fast forward to my “new normal.” I am traveling the country in NED and house-sitting. My first gig is in Loveland, CO, where a handful of Smarties, as I call them, live. When they heard I was coming, they immediately organized a meet-and-greet lunch. One member even drove up from Dallas, TX to be a part of the gathering. When we came together at the restaurant, it was if we had known each other forever. There was no talk about what we did for work, or what we owned. Yes, there was talk of drugs, doctors, and surgeries. But, mostly, there was camaraderie. We were simply there to be there. Because, as always, it beats the alternative. It was a good day.