It's nice to check back in!

[Kirkus]

It's been a while since I've been on IIS.

Not seeking any form of sympathy, just keeping my friends and acquaintances up to date.

We've been learning a lot about, and dealing with, cancer. My wife was diagnosed in early March. Things have changed quite a bit since then, including my progress in learning to photograph the heavens (quite low on the list of priorities lately). After many months of treatment, and more than a few ugly days, Mary's close to being done with treatment for a while. And I'm itching again to get back out under that night sky!

I've had to get rid of my DSLR and 10" Dob, but I still have my trusty 6" Meade LXD75 and webcam set-up. So the DSOs will have to wait. But I'm impatiently waiting for the weather to cooperate so I can point that thing at solar system objects (namely, Jupiter)!

It's nice to check back in and get caught up. I'm looking forward to posting some really small, non-detailed images again. :rofl:

[jjjnettie]

Hi Kirk,
So sorry to hear about your wifes diagnosis. Having been there myself (I've been clear for 2 years now), I can fully understand what you are both going through at the moment. It's an emotional and physical burden that no-one should have to go through. :sadeyes:
I hope that the treatments haven't been too awful. But with an understanding partner to just be there, to love you, to listen to the complaints, to take the brunt of the anger (knowing that it isn't YOU whom they are angry with) , it makes it just a little bit easier to cope.
Let your wife know that I'm thinking of her, and sending many positive thoughts her way.
Looking forward to seeing what you come up with this Jupiter season.

[lacad01]

Kirk, empathise entirely having been in your situation with my partner a few years back. Put's real meaning to the wedding vows of "..in sickness and in health."
Here's to clear skies ahead, actual and life-wise.:)

[Jen]

Welcome back Kirk :welcome::welcome:
Sorry to hear about your wife hope she has a full recovery :)

[Phil]

So sorry to hear about your wifes diagnosis. I just got told today my father has the big C not good.

Phil

[astroron]

Welcome back and best wishes to Mary and yourself:)
I look forward to seeing you back into imaging and posting on iceinspace:thumbsup:

[PCH]

Hi Kirk,

yep same here. A big welcome back from me too, and with it comes a huge genuine wish for a full and swift recovery for your wife - and a welcome relief for you too.

All the best mate.

[Kirkus]

My thanks to you all. The warm wishes are very much appreciated.
And Mary says hi.

I'm going to set up tonight for the first time in a long time. Looking forward to seeing the heavens again.