Hi, @cloudycarol I'm Scott and welcome you to Mayo Connect. I hope you find this community something you are looking for. I came to Connect while I was my wife's caregiver and was looking for some answers, help, and the chance to communicate with others who understood what I was experiencing. I especially liked that I could post here at any time of day or night and then check back in whenever I had a few free moments.

Once I became a widower one of the things I did was to start a 'to do' list that I kept going each day. It was made up of lots of little things (write a card, call someone, read a newspaper article, watch a bit of an old movie, try and find a friend of old, etc. I vowed to do one item a day and then add one item to the bottom of the list so it would not stop. I found it really helped fight my feelings of loneliness!

I hope we get to hear from you again here!

Strength, Courage, & Peace

Hi Carol,
I moved your message to this existing discussion called:
– Lonely and Just want to talk with virtual friends here https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/very-lonely/

I think you've landed in the right spot to join a supportive circle of virtual friends, including @thisismarilynb @jjwest and so many more.

Having dealt with a recent loss, you may also be interested in the discussions in the Loss & Grief group here: https://connect.mayoclinic.org/group/loss-grief/

Have you got a fun or funny story to tell us about your cats? How are they bringing a smile to your face at a time smiles are in short supply?

Hi cloudycarol
I’m so sorry for your loss.
This is a nice, safe place for us to come and chat or just listen.
I have several autoimmune diseases, anxiety, and depression problems. I lost my 45 year old daughter to an overdose of fentanyl 4 years ago.
I hope you feel safe and comfortable here. Welcome!