Forty-eight Novembers have come and gone since Doug KC2YME and his wife, Linda, were married and they have rarely been apart. The couple raised three sons and even as Doug pursued his career, he found joy in his off-hours as a ham radio operator. Those off-hours are precious to him now since he retired to become fulltime caregiver to his wife, who has dementia and requires kidney dialysis. Being deaf, she either reads his lips or increasingly relies on messages being written down.

Still, amateur radio is there for him and, at times, Doug’s ragchews have put him in touch with any number of amateurs who, like him, are devoting time – sometimes fulltime – to a family member’s complex needs. He is now hoping to bring together these kindred spirits to gather on 40 metres to share insights, stories and ultimately friendship. He is looking for suggestions as to the date and time for such a net. Anyone wishing to join to or learn more can contact him at k c 2 y me ham @ gmail.com