Thanks for sharing you story here MM and welcome to the Club!!!
(I mean to those who were once a victim but now a survivor). Your story shows that anyone could be a victim of this kind of scam even to an intelligent and cautious person like you, because you were just unaware that this exists.
I can say that I have followed your story of your struggle (through your posts) with your scammer continuing to contact and threat you so that he can extract more money from you and I can also say that you have shown already how strong you are by not giving in to their persistent threats. I don’t need to repeat their advice of continuing to ignore their attempts to contact you because I am confident that you know what to do with this and you are a strong person.
As for the money loss, well, let’s acknowledge the fact that it will really have a significant impact on your life at present and it may affect you for a while. But just remember, there’s still a big chance that we can raise it up again as long as we continue to have the resources (good health, job and other opportunities) and that’s the thing we should be thankful for. And, life does not always revolve on money after all.
By sharing your story, you have already started to help others, educating them and those who are in the healing process right now. If you need someone to talk to, we’re just here and you can also visit the Chat Room from time to time.
Wish you well.
Tomi