Nina1959, That's a good question. My answer is 'no', I don't know where everyone went. It does make me feel sad. I would start the posts by reading what Ritchie had to say. Then, I'd read the replies to his journal. Usually, I didn't comment, but it gave me a sense of how people were doing. I liked seeing the various icons on peoples' pages, the hugs and messages. And of coarse the photos. Wherever some of those folks are, I sure hope they're doing well. I haven't seen them elsewhere.
I did come across a blog a woman does called " Alifewellred.com It isn't an on line support group,. I found she has some interesting things to say. There seem to be some groups on Face Book.
I have found that some of these groups have a life of their own. One local group I was in disbanded after some twenty years. So, I don't think it's all due to the change in format, though I know that does effect things.
It'll be interesting to see if others have found their friends elsewhere.

I miss what this site used to be and so many of the formerly regular contributors too. I do blame the "update" of the site because there was a sudden downturn as people struggled with the new format. I'm hanging on in the hope that things might improve again and trying to keep up my own input to the site, though that's been hard lately.

I too miss the old DS. I now go to Phoenix Rising http://phoenixrising.me/ It is set up a little different with many "topics" and forums It is more information oriented, not as much emotional support, but it has some. it is not as close and affectionate as the old DS was. But it is something w lots of good info and hearing from others who have CFS. I tried many other sites but they were not good.

The few times I've done it, ive found the Saturday evening support group so helpful. Being so isolated, It is so comforting to hear people's voices. They have a Facebook page also but I think it is just called CFS Phone Support.