I am sorry, Thunderbear.

I don't have any words of wisdom to share. Just wanted to give you a hug of support. You have been very kind and supportive of your friend (which I'm sure hasn't always been easy for you to do). It is wonderful that he can count on you to be there for him to share how he is feeling. Your friend doesn't have to be entirely alone ~ just like you aren't.

It would be wonderful if you could be there for him physically, but that can be much more emotionally draining than you might imagine it is. While the physical isn't really possible right now, your friend can rest assured that he is in your thoughts, hopes, and very best wishes. And from my personal experience, feeling that support and love is much better than you might imagine. It's also better than people forcing themselves to be with you (even when they'd honestly rather not be doing).

Gentle hugs to you. I hope that your friend's discomfort and unhappiness ease very soon. Best wishes!