I have been a ham since 1961. First QSOs in 1962 as WN9CHE. Currently 75 yo, now with a couple of chronic medical issues, I have always had a working shack, but as a trauma and critical care surgeon, I have had many long periods of just work and no play. I became a psychiatrist in 2003 after my surgical career was shortenedt due to a cervical spinal injury. I am just near the end of winding that into full retirement. I am married to Michele, a KIWI I met when I was at a medical conference in Ft. Lauderdale. That just doesn’t happen!
I have been continuously active as an advisor since the beginning of the pandemic. It has allowed me to meet some great guys, a number of whom have become great CW operators.
I love QRQ and I am lucky to have a couple of terrific partners in that endeavor. You know, the kind of CW friends that I can laugh with when on the air, pushing it a bit. No embarrassment after screwups, just a good mutual trust. Guys who copy me no matter badly I am sending. I try to be that kind of friend for them, in return. We are rag chewers through and through. BTW. I am a paddles only guy.
As a CWA advisor, I only advise advanced classes. God bless those of you that work with beginners! This has allowed me to see the benefits of immersion in CW and how that positively improves operating skills.
I look forward to meeting you on the air, and off when possible. Sending warm 73’s to existing CW buddies.
Cheers,
Phil NE0S