Eric Cartman, in an alternate universe, was not the mischief maker everyone knew him to be. Instead, he was a kind-hearted, conscientious individual who would go the extra mile to help anyone.

One day, he noticed something unusual. His stomach was swelling up, despite his healthy eating habits and regular exercise routine. He felt the urge to hide it, fearing any unwanted attention or ridicule.

Cartman began wearing oversized clothes to mask his swollen belly. He was always cautious when he had to alter his posture or whenever he had to sit or stand.

His friends, being observant, started noticing his peculiar behavior. They found it odd, but couldn't put their finger on what exactly was wrong.

Kyle, his closest friend, was especially concerned. He noticed Cartman's heavy breathing and the way he winced slightly while walking.

One day, Kyle caught sight of Cartman waddling home after school. He decided to follow him, hoping to find out what was going on.

Cartman was struggling, his steps hindered due to the swelling. The extra weight was tiring him out, but he kept pushing himself.

Kyle was shocked to see this. He quickened his pace, catching up to Cartman, and asked, "Dude, are you okay?"

Cartman just smiled weakly, managing a small nod. He didn't want his friends worrying about him.

Kyle wasn't convinced, though. He insisted on walking Cartman home. He noticed the pain hidden in his friend's eyes.

As they reached Cartman's house, Kyle finally found the courage to ask about the elephant in the room. "Cartman, why is your stomach swollen?"

Cartman tried to brush it off, but his attempt was feeble. "It's nothing, Kyle. Just... just something I ate, I guess."

Kyle frowned. He was not convinced. "I don't believe you, Cartman. You're in pain," he said firmly.

Cartman sighed, realizing he couldn't hide it anymore. He revealed his worry about the swelling, his fear of being mocked.

Kyle felt a lump in his throat. He assured his friend that he wasn't alone and they'd figure this out together.

The next day, Kyle convinced Cartman to see a doctor. They discovered that the swelling was due to a medical condition.

The news was a relief to Cartman, who feared the worst. Now that he knew what he was dealing with, he felt a little less scared.

Kyle stood by his friend through the diagnosis and treatment. He became a pillar of support, refusing to let Cartman deal with it alone.

Together, they navigated through the uncharted territory of Cartman's condition. They learned about it, understood the treatment, and kept the faith.

Despite the hardship, their friendship grew stronger. They teased each other less, cared more, and were always there for one another.

Cartman began to trust more in Kyle and opened up about his worries. Kyle, in turn, did everything he could to reassure his friend.

Slowly, with treatment, Cartman's condition improved. His swelling reduced and he was back to his normal, healthier self.

The ordeal had taught them both crucial life lessons. It taught them the value of friendship and the strength of trust.

Cartman, once scared and troubled, was now full of gratitude. He was thankful for Kyle's unwavering support and the bond they shared.

And Kyle, through his dedication and patience, learned the depth of true friendship.

Their story serves as a reminder of the fact that friendship is not about mockery or teasing.

It's about standing together through the hardest times, weathering the storms, and emerging victorious.

It's about accepting each other's weaknesses and strengths, and supporting each other no matter what.

It's about cherishing the bond you share and being grateful for it.

Their tale ultimately shows us the power of friendship and the strength it holds.

It tells us that no matter how tough things get, having a friend by your side makes everything easier.

And in the end, it's not about the problems we face, but about how we overcome them together.

Just like Cartman and Kyle, we too can overcome anything if we have a friend supporting us.

In the face of adversity, all we need is a little faith, courage, and a good friend by our side.

And that's the true meaning of friendship, as taught by Cartman and Kyle in this alternate universe.