Life is full of surprises

[Swampfox]

Hello Paper Modelers.

It’s been a while since I’ve posted, just thought I’d give an update on life in general.

I joined PaperModelers in 2010 and really enjoyed building and posting my builds to the forum. I started doing test builds for John Dell and have enjoyed working with him, I still enjoy discussing model design with John.

About 2013, I noticed a small shaking of my right hand, but it wasn’t debilitating. I continued building, the shaking got to the point that my Doctor suggested I see a specialist, I did, and was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.

I was prescribed medication for Parkinson’s and it worked for a while, however, being progressive disease, it keeps getting worse. In Oct. of 2016, I had brain surgery, I had 2 implants at the base of my brain, and for now they are working so I’m taking the time to type this while I still can, hopefully I will be fine for a long while.

I will still watch the posts on PM and enjoy seeing other works, I doubt I’ll ever build another model. I’ve tried the automatic scan and cut devices, with mediocre results. That’s fine, but my ability to do very fine gluing is gone and clipping pieces is impossible.

My suggestion to all of you, build, enjoy life, your families, do things you’ve always wanted to do. You never know when your life will change forever.

Thanks for your time,

Swampfox/ Anthony Sanchez

[Don Boose]

Anthony -

I am very sorry to hear that the medical procedures have not restored your paper modeling fine motor skills. Your models were always superb, and I very much appreciate the advice and support you provided to us (and me in particular) over the years.

It looks like you have accommodated yourself to the situation as best you can, and I very much hope that you will enjoy life to the maximum and continue to be part of our community.

Don

[Texman]

Anthony, GREAT to see you back! I too am sorry to hear of your health issues, and pray for a continued improvement for you, your family, and your model building!

[Lex]

Sorry to hear about your health. I remember a digital artist paralysed from neck down that painted by holding a pen to his teeth. I am not suggesting such an aggressive pursuit for cardmodelling of course but just to say not all is lost. The bright and naive side of me is still thinking that there are ways to enjoy this hobby despite physical issues and if all else fails, at least you will still be around.

[chicharrero]

Thanks for your advice, Anthony
I'm glad that your health has improved, friend

[Vinalssergio155]

I wish you the best, I know what it is to have a progressive disease and what deteriorates us day by day, so I try to do what you say, enjoy every minute because you do not know what life has in store for us. what touches us, life to some plays a trick on us. Enjoy watching the wonders that make the boys. I wish the best, a greeting

[rmks2000]

Sorry to hear such bad news but glad you are back. Your positivity despite your trials is an inspiration.

[elliott]

Good to hear from you Anthony. Like the others I am sorry to hear of your disease but am heartened by your response to it. You are welcome to post as often as you can as you have much to share with your experience in building card models. Looking forward to hearing from you again.

[John Dell]

Welcome back! I'll still be needing plenty of your advice and honest critiques.

[gotham]

All the best to you.