Thank you for this, Cat. Things are going well with my son, and the outpouring of empathy i received in the response column has all but dissolved any shame.

I'm not sure I can help much with your FOM question. The Medium algorithm and metrics are so very hard to work out. i only joined because I wanted the people I read to receive MORE. It was without thought of any benefit to me. My earnings HAVE rocketed since I became a member, but I think that has more to do with getting a few boosted articles than anything else. I would say that if it is easily affordable to you, then go for it. But without expectation of increased income. I do believe that what we give out returns to us multiplied but that is MY belief and may not be yours. I'm so sorry i can't be more help. Wishing you well. A🙏💚