Have you found happiness after divorce in late 40s?

[bringonyourwreckingball]

I found out in July last year that H had not only had an affair but had been skimming family money (thousands of pounds, possibly tens of thousands) for years to pay for his prostitution habit whilst I was looking after our children. After he left I lost a lot of weight and was just starting to find me again when I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I am now 3 months into chemo, lost my hair, generally a state. I’m 48. Is this it, am I going to be alone and desperately unhappy forever? Or is there hope of finding happiness again in later life? I have many supportive lovely friends but that only goes so far.

Alone and desperately unhappy don't need to belong in the same sentence, never mind the forever bit.

You're clearly going through a lot which is difficult. Illness is horrid. But you don't have to be unhappy without a partner. I'm single and love it. When I read some of the stories on here I feel grateful for the peace in my life.

And you don't have to be single forever. Why would you be? A friend of mine just got married at 50 and she is blissfully happy. Late 40s means nothing as you can meet someone at any age if you choose to. Just be wary of thinking your happiness depends on a new relationship. There's contentment to be found in a lot of ways.

I hope your chemo goes well and you are soon in remission.

I think it becomes a decision on whether to build happiness by yourself or lower your standards.
I'm 47 soon and ridiculously sad and lonely. My kids are great but their father left me 18 months ago and we're now divorced. I'm ok financially and like my peace but I ache for my ex.
I'm not bad looking but not a model either. I know my place in the dating pond.
The only interest I get online is from guys who are too old for me to fancy them (think 60 plus)
The late 40s guys date women in their 30s.
My choice seems to be a bloke I don't fancy at all or stay as I am.
It's depressing.
Sorry. I wish you all the best for your treatment though. xx

Hello OP. I will not be of much help to you as I am very recently divorced (Apr 1 and no it is not a joke), but I have been separated for almost two years. I personally am not looking for a relationship, would not want to move in with someone or god forbid, marry again. What I am looking for is a quiet and comfortable life with my own self, my kids and my few friends and family.

Currently I live with my adult kids but soon enough they will leave, I know. I am sure I would feel lonely and sad sometimes, but I do not regret leaving. I am looking forward to finding myself again, getting to know myself better, taking care of myself, caring for myself as I believe I neglected myself too much over the 25 years I spent with my now ex. I am looking forward to falling in love with my own self and I wish the same to you.

Take care💕