Reaching Out: Online

Over the past decade or so the internet has grown dramatically to say the least and has become common in most homes. It is estimated that 74% of Americans have internet access in their home which is roughly 204 million people. I came across an interesting newspaper article which described how the internet was used as a way to help support a young cancer patient. A close family friend started a website where people could receive updates and leave messages. The site spiraled outward creating a whole network of people – friends, friends of friends and even strangers whose children also had cancer. Tragically, Bradley lost his battle with Cancer however the site still remains with over 41,000 hits and with visitors leaving close to 4,000 messages of encouragement and comfort. Bradley’s mother Marilyn stated in the article that this site had helped Bradley realize how many people cared for him and also helped her to get this through this difficult situation. This is a good example of space, place and scale because this young man received support from people he knew nothing about. This site brought together people from all over the country, and other countries as well, to help support him in his battle. Also, uniting them for the same purpose despite ones physical location, erasing borders in a sense to help one another through encouragement. This is a wonderful use for the internet as it can lift ones spirit in a positive way giving them hope. The internet has changed the way we communicate binging people all around the world closer together.