Our admin team is a closely-knit group and we are in communication often, so the news of Dave's condition - and the rate at which it deteriorated - was something we were all aware of and followed closely and, for me at least, dreaded to pass on to our fellow forumites. Given Dave's ability to bounce back so bravely early on I was optimistic for the future and for him to recover once more and return to the fold. Sadly this was not to be.
I am very thankful to Brad for allowing me to get in touch with Sally to pass on my sentiments, and it was bittersweet to receive Dave's responses (through Sally) in his final days, and to learn how much our relationship meant to him. I cannot thank her enough for taking the time during this awful period to relay these messages to us. It means more than I can put into words. Thank you Sally and I wish you and "the boys" nothing but the best.
I'm writing this post at Wellington Airport, New Zealand's capital city and I believe an old haunt of Dave's from his journalism days, and I'm not ashamed to say I'm in tears writing this.
We all owe Dave a great debt for what he did for the forum after Des' passing, and by extension for the hobby in general through the connections he fostered with kit manufacturers. I personally feel extremely grateful for the opportunities he gave me by taking me on as part of the admin team and our friendship - even though it was only ever via the forum and Facebook - is one I will always treasure.
Blue skies, tailwinds and a packed stash my friend. Kia kaha.
