Thanks for sharing this very personal perspective. Life is a lesson and the world is a fascinating classroom.
FT members are in the minority of the traveling public and they are a privileged bunch. I have benefited a lot from the kindness and expertise of a few people here and I will always be thankful for that. You have taken great advantage of your time here and I am glad that you were fruitful in your travels.
I wish you luck in your fight. There are so many more experiences awaiting for you out there. Most importantly, I admire your optimism and in my opinion you have won already.