Well Fk!

[Expat]

Well its been awhile since I posted properly, good to see some familiar names around. Figured i'd post as I'm going to be stepping away for awhile due to health reasons.

Got some bad news recently, turns out that I have a tumor on my pancreas and I'm headed for some serious surgery. FUCK!! Additional kick in the balls, more than good chance i'm going to loose my spleen in the process. FUCK FUCK!! Everything after that is when the shit can get really real depending on the pathology.

I've got some reasons to be hopeful, reasonably early detection, age and general health are in my favor. But the doc just dropped a bomb, even in the best case scenario, drinking alcohol in a meaningful way is not going to be part of my future; between Zero and a single drink on my birthday I was told. So considering my current supply is ample, it just hit me that realistically i'm likely done with distillation.

Gotta say that hit me like a hammer. I've deeply enjoyed this hobby. Building and rebuilding my setup, learning proper and clean fermentation, distillation, blending, recipes, and connecting/learning from all the folks here on HD. Its not to say that I couldn't continue even if I personally couldn't drink it, but for the time being, I doubt it.

So for now, I'm turning my focus to family and health. Controlling the things that are within my power, and trying not to worry about the rest.

[Forest Beekeeper]

Good luck with your upcoming surgery.

[Yummyrum]

Thats shitty news Expat . Pancreatic cancer is supposed to be a painful bitch so sounds promising they found it quick and hopefully you’ll come out OK .
Having a good supply of nicely aged spirit that you can never touch would be heart breaking. Time to find another hobby man .
Will be thinking of you as you go through this shit storm .

[Deplorable]

Sorry to hear this. Take care of yourself Brother, stay healthy.
I've always said that if I was ever inflicted with a condition that forced me to step away from this hobby, I would give my kit to someone who would carry on the craft, and mentor them along their journey.

[Copperhead road]

Life throws us some curveballs at times, you have a good strong positive attitude Expat, good luck with your upcoming surgery Expat.

you will be back enjoying the hobby in no time. its surprising there is a lot of experienced distillers that dont drink much but love the craft, I am one of them...

[Saltbush Bill]

Sorry to hear that Expat, life can throw some shit at us at times.
Youve been here a long time and made plenty of contributions.......16 years worth..
Be good if you still dropped in from time to, you know enough by now to be more than helpfull to newbs and others who need advice.
Stay positive is all that I can say to help.

[Tater]

Best of luck to ya

[BlackStrap]

Sorry to hear that Expat.
I hope that all goes well for you.

[shadylane]

I hate to hear about the health problems you are having.
If it would be of any help, I have a brother in law I could loan you.
You could keep distilling and not have to worry about alcohol with him following you to the shed.

[bilgriss]

Early detection is excellent news. Best of luck with everything.

[Saltbush Bill]

If it would be of any help, I have a brother in law I could loan you.
You could keep distilling and not have to worry about alcohol with him following you to the shed.

Dont send him my way what ever you do. I'm very fond of my stash of long term aged spirts.
Got enough fee loaders already.

[tommysb]

Sorry to hear it Expat. Look after yourself mate.

[PalCabral]

Fuck cancer! Fight it with what you got, Expat. You can do it.

[hellbilly007]

Hate to hear it for ya. You're doing the right thing, abstaining. Really sucks that it's taking your hobby from ya. Keep your chin up. Enjoy your time with your family. It's not the end

[NorthWoodsAb]

Expat This kind of news really sucks. Hopefully detection was early enough to see you in the clear soon. Stay positive.

[Yonder]

That’s a tough hit to take Expat. Be strong.Stay strong and POSITIVE. I’m sure we all want to follow your journey so stay in touch.