Blogging is amazing, isn’t it?

It captures real-time emotions and information into a relationship of almost daily conversations.

That’s what I needed when I was first diagnosed – to express what I was going through and be received by others. It was a whole new world for me, and I needed to connect with others in that world.

I was really touched by those who responded. Some were healthy and wanted to be an encouragement. Others were on a similar journey, with similar questions, reaching out to see if we could find answers together.

We had a great time together, going through the ups and downs of treatment. Sometimes we stayed in close contact, and sometimes we drifted away. Sometimes we found answers, and sometimes we only found more questions.

But we understood each other. We connected with the fears, doubts, and the overload of information and opinions. We struggled with the eternal as we clung to life.

Since Suspended was launched, I wanted to continue our conversation into the future. I can’t make promises considering my own condition, but I my goal is to blog once or twice a week. Whether you have a disease or journeying with someone who has a disease, the blog helps us know we are not alone.

How can you be involved?

First, sign up to get email notices whenever I blog.  I check my email more than I do blogs, so this reminder is the “pick-me-up” I need in the day. I’ll include the whole entry in the email so that you don’t have to go to the website if you don’t have time.

Second, continue the conversation. Click on the email title and go to the website and “comment.” Did it hit an emotional note with you? Was it on target or off? Is there something more you want to say? I want the good, bad, and ugly – we have to be real about what is going on with us, don’t we?

Third, spread the word. At the end of the blog, there is a “share” button for you to repost it on FaceBook, X, or whatever format you use. If I copy a line that is meaningful to me in the “What’s on your mind?” box, it personalizes the post, letting readers quickly know a nugget that gave me hope. I’ve been amazed who reads it, comments on it, and then comes to the site to find out more.

Thank you for all your encouragement!