This topic is all about helping newcomers find their way around an ostomy support site. It covers how to use chat and messaging features, understand different membership options, and navigate the site effectively. Here are some helpful tips and insights:

1. Messaging and Chat:
- Only paying members can start emails or private chats, but free members can reply to messages they receive and post in public forums.
- You can access general and private chat through the "Mobile Chat" box located in the lower-right corner on smartphones and tablets.

2. Membership Levels and Perks:
- There are monthly, yearly, and lifetime membership plans available. For example, a lifetime membership might cost around $50.
- The site rewards the 10 most active posters each month with a 1-month full membership.

3. Mobile Layout:
- Tap the avatar icon in the upper-right corner to access account tools and upload photos.
- Tap the three horizontal-line icon in the upper-right corner for more links.
- Tap the four-line icon in the upper-left corner to view site sections and see "Who's Online." Selecting a name will open that profile.

4. Etiquette:
- If your messages go unanswered, it might be because the recipient hasn't noticed them or is shy. Try not to take it personally.

5. Availability:
- The experienced member who provided this guide is usually online Monday to Friday, from 9 AM to 5 PM EST, and is open to questions.

Additional Questions and Information:

- Refreshing: You might need to reload the page occasionally to update the chat or online-user list.
- PC vs. Mobile: Some find desktop browsing easier, though many prefer mobile for its convenience.
- Chat Delivery: Replies to private chats won't go through if the recipient is offline or has closed their chat window.
- Site Map (desktop): Use the top tabs—HOME, MY MENU, FORUM, BLOGS, COLLECTIONS, THE SOCIAL, CONTACT US—to navigate different sections.
- Member Search: Use "Search by Name or Number" in the left column to find users. Click on a profile and then "Send Message."

Advice and Insights:

- Mobile chat reliability can vary; some phones might drop connections or fail to notify users of new messages.
- Being blocked or ignored is often due to technical issues or busy schedules, not personal rejection. Try not to take it to heart.
- Current membership fees (with automatic currency conversion for credit card or PayPal):
- 6-Month Full Membership: $35
- 1-Year Full Membership: Regular $49, Special $39
- Lifetime Full Membership: Regular $89, Special $59
- Many long-time users find the lifetime option cost-effective and often welcome newcomers to encourage participation.
- Non-paying members can't send the first message, so if replies are delayed or missing, explain politely and suggest using forum posts for initial contact.
- Even tech-savvy newcomers can feel lost. Using the HOME tab as a reset point and exploring menus gradually can help avoid confusion.