Hello Crystal, sorry to hear about your recent losses, and don't apologize for having been away from the forum. We all understand that "life" can happen and take us away from other things. Many users come and go from the community, and sometimes show up again later. We would certainly never condemn someone for that *hugs*
Many people cant understand the love that we have for our small pets. I suppose since hamsters are so small and have short life spans they don't appreciate them as being a living creature as they might a dog or cat. Maybe people would rather spend money on a new hamster then bring a sick one to the vets for example.
Just ignore those people who think your being silly.
We know how you feel here.