I suppose that's true. Well, we can see if the save will resurface soon.
As an alternative, if it's ever possible to schedule a couple hours all at the same time, we can play a multiplayer game (simultaneous play). Although, it's not quite the same thing. So I dunno.
I suppose we could also start a new game with the people we know are going to play on time.... Well, I do feel bad that this turned out so poorly.