Tragedy in the blogging world — American Bedu (Re-Post from American Girl)

This makes me sad.  American Bedu is a friend to all expats - not only in Saudi Arabia, but in the GCC region and beyond.  She has tried to bridge the cultural gap in terms of creating a better (positive) understanding of her community and some of the challenges she has faced.  Her "real world" first hand experiences are invaluable to anyone transitioning to life in Saudi Arabia; and have offered insights into the GCC culture as a whole.

I started following her when I came across her pen name on a google search of regional blogs similar to mine; expats sharing our perspectives of life in this part of the world.  That was years ago.  Every now and then I drop in to see how she's doing (as I do with all my blog buddies). 

We become a community of virtual friends who care about and encourage eachother.  It is a "Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants" kind of experience in a way; only we often never meet in real life.  We form bonds.  We look out for each other.  When we receive negative blog comments, we often unite and form a common stand against the opposing force.  When we have real problems, we might even go as far as to e-mail or call each other.  There is a connection.  I have formed bonds with male bloggers in the past, but usually my lasting virtual friendships are with female bloggers.  We become kindred spirits in the world of virtual reality.  These women and their small acts of kindness have impacted my life in ways that have made a tremendous difference to me.

This is a time to return a favor.

I am re-posting this from American Girl's World Blog and I hope that others will help Carol with her choice to rest peacefully at home with the creatures she loves through her struggle with cancer.

Carol, we are all praying for you.

Tragedy in the blogging world — American Bedu

By American Girl On May 21, 2013 · Add Comment

For those who aren’t familiar, American Bedu is an American woman who was married to a Saudi. Sadly her husband who she loved so dearly lost his battle with cancer a few years ago. American Bedu (Carol) was surely devastated, but was then diagnosed with cancer herself. She’s been battling the illness for years.

Throughout her struggle with cancer, Carol has managed to maintain her blog and provide incredibly helpful information to her readers. She’s never complained, never given up, and never said a negative word out of frustration with life in general. Instead, she’s taken what would have broken most of us and allowed it to be her strength.

Unfortunately Carol has recently been hospitalized again and her family stated the prognosis isn’t good. But at this time it is her wish to leave the hospital and stay in her home with her cats. For her to do this will require 24/7 care which can be incredibly costly. This is where we can help. Please consider donating any amount at all. Please allow Carol to return to the comfort of her home.
The page for donations can be found here or in any one of the links above.