I have read through this thread a few times. What they did to you seems very intentional. I suspect they planned to cause as much harm as they could for some unknown reason. I hope they were not invited to the b-day party. Your supporting friends here would not mix well with that breed.
When I encounter the negative people, I like to think that I am doing most everything right. They are the ones that have issues to work through. I am not better than others, just on a wiser and more productive path.
I'm glad you are alive and thriving.