End of an Era??

[Steve Kerswell]

                             Many of you know that for the past 12 or so years I have been fighting a brain tumor, Major surgery and follow up surgery has kept me alive, but at a reduced rate. 80% deaf and failing, unable to blink or move the right hand side of my face, now scary blood pressure fluctuations. I have worked in heavy engineering for the past 45 years and that too, has taken its toll. From working among 16000 fellow ship yardies, to being self employed working alone for the past 12 years making ends meet.

                             Today, I have ran out of my welding qualifications, no more ASME9, no more BS numbers are beside my name. Plus my Gas registration is about to expire. To renew all these at my time in life with my health issues I'm looking at the wrong side of £1500-00, Cannot warrant that sot of expense anymore.

                             I already miss the banter and wind ups, the tea breaks, the arguments about who was the better welder/fitter on the day.

                             Still, chin up ole guy. Life goes on, so be warned, I'm spoiling for a fight as I have loads of pent up energy, you could run a light bulb off me. The wife is dreading having me around. May finish loads of unfinished projects. Fed up welding for 10 hours a day anyway, who needs it ? :-)))