Cancer, Starting Over and Painting Miniatures

[@somekindofchymist736]

Thank you for making this video. I only recently took up mini painting as a hobby, during a trip away for the first time in a long time, after having had it on a 'maybe one day' list for a long time. My main reason for going on that trip was to try to start and discover who I am, and who I want to be, what I like, what I value, and about a half million other thing. That journey of self-discovery started long before that trip when last year I faced my own cancer diagnosis, also at a relatively young age. I was lucky in that my own case was one that was usually very treatable, and all indications are that I'll be fine, but many of the things you said resonated deeply with me. About the fear of the unknown, about reconsidering and recontextualizing the years so far, about having to navigate a social safety net that has a lot more holes than I thought, about the anger at the response of others to the pandemic and the risks they thrust onto others, about trying to get back into life, about the effect on loved ones, about writing a letter before surgery, and about having go it alone because of a global pandemic causing immense strain on health systems. University, and before that high school, were the focus of my life for the vast majority of my life so far. Thankfully, after delays due to the pandemic and treatment, that chapter has just recently come to a close. But I felt rage, and sadness, and guilt, and a dozen other things because I had put everything into that one thing, and I was so scared that my life (and the world around me) would come to a close before I ever really got to do anything with it. So when I made it out of the other side of treatment I had a different outlook on the world, and my place in it, and what I wanted to do. I became nicer, but at the same time also started to focus on me more, on what I wanted and the way fears and anxieties got in my way. So when I finished the last requirements for university, I went on that trip to be by myself for a while, and to try new things and see the world. To live life. Before that I had talked to some people about wanting to try making things, to use my own two hands to create because I thought it would help me. Help me with processing things that happened, with confidence, with my fears and with feeling fufilled. I saw a little hobby shop in the town where I was staying and bought what I needed to start and gave it a go. And I loved it, it did all the things I thought it would. I finally stopped putting it aside. And then I looked at other things, things I can make, build, create, do. Arts and crafts and hobbies and projects and all the possibilities. I'm still on that journey of discovering who I am, what I like and who I want to be, but I think mini painting, and related hobbies, are going to be a big part of that. Taking up this hobby is a step in getting out and trying new things, doing what makes me happy and making myself proud of my life, of making the little kid I was that wondered what life held proud, of having something to look back on the next time life takes a turn for the terrifying. So this video helped me. Like you said, it helps to know you aren't alone. So I figured the least I could do was figure out how to set up a KZbin account to write a comment saying thank you. I wish you all the best with the future and with many more projects to come.

[@MiniQuest64]

My dear friend.... I am so sorry for the things you went trough, I can relate to your message quite a lot, having spend most of my life working and getting educated, becoming an engineer and stuff. When I got my diagnosis it almost felt like life was over before it really started, people underestimate what stress can do to the body and mind. I can truly feel the struggle through your words, the experience you've made, the anger and sadness you must have felt, being lonely and depressed. I'm glad you started your journey of self discovery, you only have this one life and I hope you reach your goals and can be healthy and happy again. I'm convinced that you have became stronger through all that and are prepared for upcoming events and to help people dealing with with similar things. Your comment really hits on another level, I do struggle while writing my response. How to respond properly? I guess I can't. All I can say is... I feel it, everything, I'm sorry it happened to you, I'm happy how it turned around and I hope you find your way. Thank you for sharing your story and writing the this hearth-warming comment. From the bottom of my heart, I wish you nothing but the best, stay healthy, take care of yourself and your loved ones and make that little kid of yours proud. Be the person that kid needed back then. Much Love

[@Zumikito]

Awesome video my dude. It's wonderful to see you get back to it, building so many awesome things and enjoying the process. Love it! Keep on rocking

[@MiniQuest64]

Thanks Simon! I can't express what that means to me! Thank you for all your support and advice

[@saml6798]

That ... That was a hell of a journey. I can't even imagine, incredible that you've managed so much from so little

[@MiniQuest64]

You've made my journey a lot easier since then. Thanks Sam, you're the best!

[@Geordiecrafts]

Such an incredibly powerful message Sergei, so happy to have met you and be part of your journey!

[@MiniQuest64]

Thank you so much for your support Geordie! I feel the same way :)

[@I_NoFu_I]

I have no idea what led me to this video tonight ... but thank you Sergei. I hope you are well and I wish you both all the best.

[@TheBasicBrush]

Well shit ... If you can make such a good video about such a hard topic ... Not sure what my excuse is for not doing one 😂 You are an amazing painter, creator and friend. It is and continues to be a pleasure to see you grow.

[@MiniQuest64]

As always, nothing but support from you. Thank you so much for being my friend

[@biovoro]

You have touched my soul with your story. My mother has been fighting with cancer for a year, and seeing the evolution and seeing that the person who was not returned to assume it. Life is like that, the worst moment is to accept and assimilate it, but once you see that it is, a new stage is growing inside you. Congratulations on your project, a huge hug.

[@MiniQuest64]

A heart-wrenching story, my friend... it is very hard to find the right words for an answer, although I can relate to the things you said a lot. I wish nothing but the best and a lot of strength to you and your family! Thank you for your kind words and a big hug, send back! If you ever need to talk about it in detail, make sure to contact me anytime.

[@MiniQuest64]

Are you, your friends or family going through a rough time? Then this Video is for you. Maybe it can help to understand people who experience such things, maybe you feel alone and are searching for people sharing a similar fate. Feel free to share your story here in the comments or message me directly over Instagram or Reddit. You are not alone! And don't you dare go hollow...

[@scittykitty]

I just happened to find your DKC3 video in my recommended and finally watched it today. Then, it led me to this video. This is really motivating, especially for someone who struggles to find joy in life. Thank you for sharing your experience and what you've learned from it. I'm glad to know that you're in a much better place now and doing what makes you happy. 💕

[@MiniQuest64]

Thank you so much for saying that, it was a very personal video and difficult to make. ❤

[@tomloveland2245]

What an incredibly inspiring video. Simply awesome.

[@marcocoppola6250]

I just found this video. Nothing to say, you are really a blessing! The miniatures have helped me in overcoming difficult times ... I do not even imagine what it feels like in your situation. Keep it up! "To enjoy". This is the word that must become a mantra.

[@MiniQuest64]

Thank you man, I get overwhelmed with heartwarming comments like yours. They really make my day special

[@dredsirius]

Hey bud. Just found this video and yeah F*** Cancer. My mom has been fighting it for almost 2 years, i live in Canada and she is back in Mexico and i couldn't be with her during chemo and it sucked. Now she started radiation therapy and I just see her, going to work, enjoying time with my sisters and her dog, laughing and fighting so strong. Thanks for this man, it really hit me in a good way and i cant wait to see what you post here!

[@MiniQuest64]

Hey Victor, I'm very sorry to hear about your mom man... that must have hit all of you pretty hard. And not even being able to be there... I can't imagine how that must have felt. Feel hugged man! But I assure you, you don't have to be there to be supportive and I am pretty sure you are doing your best! I wish your mum, your sisters, their dog and you all the best in the world, I hope it somehow manages to work out and your mum fill be fine again

[@LylaMev]

your mini looks fantastic, and I'm glad you found miniature painting to be such a great outlet for you.

[@MiniQuest64]

Thanks Lyla, from a pro like you, that means a lot!

[@dvn4297]

It was a serious shit story but with happy ending. Спасибо за видео. Пускай эта история достигнет как можно больше людей.

[@MiniQuest64]

Спасибо за просмотр, мой друг, желаю тебе всего наилучшего

[@captbaldy]

I’m not crying.. you are!🥺🥹 Great video cousin!💪🏼

[@MiniQuest64]

Thank you for your support my friend :) You're the best!

[@FrenchTroll]

Wow, that's a powerful message, thanks Sergei ! I only recently discovered your channel wanting to dive into resin printing my minis and instantly fell in love with the authenticity of your videos. (Also I love dwarves sooo...

[@MiniQuest64]

A Dwarf Lover! Awesome! Welcome to this little channel and thank you for these kind words, they really do mean a lot to me =) What are you going to print if I may ask? All the best wishes to you, I'm happy to have you around

[@sushimandaddi]

Sergei, I had no idea, I really appreciate and love your videos and the fact you can go through all that still keep pushing iz absolutely incredible. All the best to you and thank you so much for the inspiration

[@MiniQuest64]

Well it is pretty rough, I can tell you that! :D That's the reason I needed about 5 weeks to create this video! But comments like yours really hit me and make it worth the time invested! Thank you for staying with me, all the best to you, your family and loved ones

[@GMAtank]

Wonderful message of hope Sergei. It's what the world needs more of-- less vitriol and more positivity! Much respect brother.

[@MiniQuest64]

Thanks Mike, I do feel the same way. Glad to hear from you again

[@dopeyautumn]

I am just now watching this, but it seriously moved me. I have been stuck in limbo and not knowing what I want to do in my life. I have been interested in miniature painting as a hobby and you have helped push me in the right direction and give me the motivation to peruse it as a hobby ! I am so happy that you are doing better in life and that everything worked out the way that it did for you. I will continue to support this channel ! Much love :)

[@MiniQuest64]

Oh wow, you need to tell me more about your new hobby! What will you be painting? Thank you very much for your kind words too, and please excuse my late reply =) Comments like these really make my day

[@dopeyautumn]

@@MiniQuest64 I went to my local game store today and bought a Warhammer starter set! I am very excited to paint them :)

[@MiniQuest64]

@dopeyautumn what a magical moment! Did you get some Space Marines? :)

[@dopeyautumn]

@@MiniQuest64 I got some stormcast eternals from AOS. It was a bit cheaper than the space marines so I figured that would be a good starting point !

[@MiniQuest64]

@@dopeyautumn Great choice! They are fun to paint too =)

[@GiantRobolove]

You've come a long way. Being diagnosed with cancer and then on top of it all that during the pandemic hassle. I cannot fathom the pain that you must have went through. All the more I have the upmost respect for you and your resilience. Hearing your story is prove that even if you're in the darkest spot, good things can happen if you stay strong. I'm so happy for you that you not only fought through cancer, but that you also found your special one. I hope she is doing fine. I wish you guys all the best :)

[@MiniQuest64]

Damn David! How do I respond to such a beautiful message? Thank you so much, I wish nothing but the best for you and your loved ones too

[@hobbyhoarderspodcast4059]

Thank you for being brave enough to tell your story. I hope this helps others who know anyone going through similar situations.

[@MiniQuest64]

Hearing similar story's always helped me to get to the darkest times. Thank you for your kind words

[@nickkowalski5209]

Hey man. Incredibly brave of you to share such a personal piece. And I'm glad it turned around for the better. I was on the other side of your story, one of those friends and family, so I know how miserable it could be. Happy it's not your case. Keep it up.

[@MiniQuest64]

Thank you nick! It sure wasn't easy and took a lot of time and energy. I'm really sorry for the experience you've made. I'm sure you were a big support in that difficult time!

[@SCABRFB]

This inspired me so much. Im not in your situation, but i have been struggling with anxiety for a long time now. I became very good in postponing things. Your video made me realise that its time to do stuff. Thank you very much!

[@MiniQuest64]

Hey SCABRFB! Thank you for watching and taking the time to write a comment, really appreciate it. I can relate to anxiety and postponing very much, this world can be very cruel and demotivating. Whatever you're up to now, I wish nothing but the best for you and your plans, keep me updated my friend

[@drfishynooooo881]

Dude I really want to like this 100 times every day. Any time I feel I have a rough day I will watch this. Genuinely inspiring. Being able to rise against and give your all ( 😉 ) is truly impressive. Thank you for sharing. This will impact people more than you think.

[@MiniQuest64]

That comment here is more then I could have asked for my friend, thank you so much

[@Paint_Quest]

What an inspiring video and message… thanks for sharing! Alles Gute Sergei!

[@MiniQuest64]

Thanks for watching Toby! =) Freue mich schon auf deine nächsten Projekte mein lieber!

[@mprove_music]

Beautiful story, dude - so happy for you. Thank you so much for being an inspiration.

[@MiniQuest64]

Thank you for your kind words man, greatly appreciated

[@twitchyterry9495]

Never seen your content before but I love miniature painting (my little Seraphon Army) and you came up in my feed. And you sir, are a wonderful human being. I wish you all the best❤

[@twitchyterry9495]

I'll sub also

[@MiniQuest64]

Thank you my friend, for your time and support, may your seraphon army crush all your enemies (Eexcept the dwarfs...of course)! I hope you are doing fine and wish you as well, all the best in the world

[@NinetaleHobbies]

Wish you nothing but the best and great success with everything you do.

[@MiniQuest64]

Thanks Drew, appreciate it =)

[@omarameer8254]

Thank you for sharing your story. I was diagnosed with a chronic kidney disease 2 weeks ago that I'll be managing for the rest of my life. A lot of what you said really resonated with me.

[@MiniQuest64]

Dear Omar, I am really sorry to hear that you have to go through such a difficult time. Take your time to compensate all the things you are experiencing now, there is still much to come and it doesn't have to be bad. Your health is a one time ticket, don't trade it for anything else, take care of yourself and your loved ones, I wish the best for you and your health

[@kelvinprior6621]

That's a hell of a journey my friend keep up the great work

[@MiniQuest64]

Thank you my friend! I will continue to do so until im not able anymore =)

[@RealDuendeNoFake]

I went from your skaven video to this and I gotta say, this was really touching and I'm looking forward to your future content, you're seriously inspiring.

[@MiniQuest64]

Thank you for your kind words and joining the quest! It means a lot to me

[@RealDuendeNoFake]

@@MiniQuest64 No need to thank me! If anything thank you for this vid, it seriously gave me a boost in motivation after being in a slump for a while:>

[@beelzebul7972]

Ich bin sehr stolz auf dich und was du erreicht und geschaffen hast. Ich wünsche dir für deine Zukunft alles Gute. Bleib so wie du bist. LG

[@MiniQuest64]

Danke mein lieber! Ich weiß, dass ich mich auf dich verlassen kann

[@beelzebul7972]

@@MiniQuest64 immer 😘

[@phillbosque2183]

Thank you for this video! I can kinda relate. I was diagnosed with cancer as well in 2020 and I had the same issues with being isolated from family. It was rough since my daughter was 2 and I couldn't spend much time or even interact with her. The chemo completely wrecked my body, my wife bought me the 40k Indomitus box set so I had something to do during treatment and recovery but I couldn't touch it for a full year I was too weak. Safe to say when I could I did get to miniature painting it definitely helped, and still does. Tumor went from the size of a grapefruit to about a marble. I think I enjoy this hobby too much though, my garage has become my fortress of solitude where I can go to relax after the family is asleep and paint my minis.

[@MiniQuest64]

Oh Phill... your comment hit me on another level man... it sounds awful, especially with the responsibility of a little daughter, I can't imagine what that must have felt. I'm relieved and happy that it turned out in a good way, the cancer treatment on its own is a nightmare I wish nobody upon. I would suggest getting many more boxes of minis, so you can't leave until you've painted them all :D Jokes aside, I wish nothing but the best for you, your health and your family

[@phillbosque2183]

@@MiniQuest64 thank you! I have to say the treatment work and I feel normal. They keep checking the tumor if it grows back i may need more chemo or surgery but we’ll see, so far so good!! Since treatment i was able to have a baby boy and he just turned 1! We call him our miracle baby because i had an orchiectomy and with the chemo they said having children again might be difficult. Thank you for the kind words and I really hope you beat the cancer! Greetings from San Diego in the US!

[@MiniQuest64]

That's the spirit, my friend! Super happy for you and your little boy, give him a hug from me and please continue fighting and being awesome!

[@phillbosque2183]

@@MiniQuest64 i will thank you!

[@ChimeraWargaming]

Big hug for you and from Liam ❣️

[@MiniQuest64]

Hey Stefano and Liam, I just had a look at your awesome channel! Keep up the cool work =) And feel hugged from us too, hope you are okay and healthy!

[@logancooper943]

Very powerful! This is one of the most inspiring videos about pursuing your passion that I've ever seen. From someone who struggles with pushing myself forward in life and is afraid of taking the plunge into being a creator, thank you for making this.

[@MiniQuest64]

Wow, thank you! That is one hell of a compliment my friend!!! Best wishes to you and your journey, I hope to see you again soon

[@Josh-bn6lz]

Inspiring and brave my friend. I am in aww as a new member of the hobby on how kind, supportive and genuine the people are here. I look forward to continuing to watch your content and your Art. Best wishes all the way from California!

[@MiniQuest64]

Thanks Josh! You've definitely joined the right hobby to see some nice people =) Thanks for staying on this little quest of mine! And greetings from Germany to California

[@Karlmakesstuff]

Bro. That's a hell of a journey. You've always struck me as a super nice person but you've got even more of my respect now with how you retook control of your life. Much love.

[@MiniQuest64]

Karl my man! Being called a nice person from someone like you means A LOT! I could say the same about you, always supportive and helpful, no matter the task. Please continue to be yourself, you are awesome and the world would be a better place if there were more Karl's

[@SteebRNR]

love from italy, you touched my heart

[@MiniQuest64]

Much love from germany back to you my friend =)

[@SteebRNR]

@@MiniQuest64 stay strong buddy! P.s your work on the channel deserves a lot more viewers! What you do is amazing

[@3dprintingsmith380]

Dude ♥️

[@MiniQuest64]

[@Velasc]

Amazing video! Thank you

[@MiniQuest64]

Thanks man! Glad you liked it!

[@DragonHeart1791]

Keep up the fight my dude, your story is inspirational and your video is top quality. 👏 You said in the video that if you can help at least one person and give back just a little then you would be happy. Well I'm trying miniature painting for the first time later this week and your videos have been fantastic, I've watched your Slayer and Dwarf army video's and they were full of useful information for a beginner like myself 😀 Keep it up, I've subscribed and will be watching the channel intently 😁❤

[@MiniQuest64]

Dude how can I even respond to such a wholesome, heartwarming message? I'm not crying... you are! Jokes aside, thank you so much for your kind words and saying that, you literally saved my day with that

[@rushthewash]

I am so humbled by your experience, and I am very glad our paths have crossed. I was going up and down between the paintjob and your narration, and I am afraid I have to say this was mesmerizing. I am so sorry you had to go with your hardships alone because of the Covid19. I am so happy you are now with the love of your life! And I really, really hope that you keep being awesome for as long as possible. You are such a great inspiration for all of us!

[@MiniQuest64]

Miguel my friend, thank you so much for these kind words. I really do appreciate them and it is hard for me, to give an answer to such a meaningful message. Thank you for always being supportive and helpful, I'm really happy that I had the chance to get to know you

[@chad2687]

f*ck dude that was intense. Idk if there is any hope left but if there is I hope it arrives on time. you seem like an awesome person and I wish you the world. This video gave me perspective and was overal VERY well made imo. Ill definitely follow you on your quest, Im excited to see what you'll make/paint/do. This video inspired me to do the things I should've done long ago. Becoming ill and getting RSI in multiple places of my body scared the living shit out of me and made me give up alot of things out of fear. but you made me realize that I cant live life like that forever. Thanks man! Lets hope that this is the multiverse where cancer gets cured while you're still alive, you deserve it.

[@MiniQuest64]

Hey Chad! I guess with cancer it's always intense, even for those unable to share their story. That's why I shared mine, sometimes listening to a story can help you through dark times, it sure helped me. I'm really sorry my friend, about the RSI and the horrific experiences you've made, as a miniature painter, that sounds even more scary! How are you doing so far man? What are you going to do, that you forgot about? Really interested in your story! As for me, don't worry, I'm not gonna give up that easily! Thank you for following me on my quest, that phrase alone just almost made me tear up. I appreciate your kind words, and wish nothing but the best for you, your family and loved ones

[@chad2687]

@@MiniQuest64 Hey Sergei, thanks for your response. You are absolutely right ab hearing another story, yours resonated with me even tho we dont share the same illness. I actually got RSI from playing piano ( for wayyyy too many hours lol. ) my arms are a bit better rn but I still need to b v careful. Since starting college ( Biomechanics ) I now know the exact muscles that are active and painful for me when playing. luckily for me there isnt alot of strain on those muscles when painting! So I started to pick that up again. Im currently working on several cool miniatures for DnD ( mostly demons and knights ). As for the things I need to do; ever since life hit me I had panic attacks when I go to crowded spaces, which sucks bc Im an extrovert by nature. I still want to visit alot of cool places and meet tons of cool people, something I was very scared about for a long time. I went from going on spontanious roadtrips to being scared to leave the house and I want to go back to who I was. But it is a slow journey. Your video inspired me to up the pace a little. Ive already made plans w friends I havent seen in a while and that is just the start. You seem like an awesome person from what I gather. I wish you the best

[@MiniQuest64]

@Chad Oh man... I didn't know you could get that from playing piano! (Also Biomechanics? Now I'm jealous!) Did it somehow get better over time or did your ability to avoid certain movements made it easier? (Also happy to see you are painting again, would love to see some miniatures of yours!) I can totally relate to those panic attacks man, they started to come when I got that illness, turned me from an extro- into an introvert over time, but I actually enjoy that now :D Sounds great man, small steps into the right direction! I can't wait how it will turn out! I'm just a simple guy painting minis and building stuff, but you are awesome man! Feel hugged bro

[@chad2687]

@@MiniQuest64 Ill respond on instagram lol that is a bit easier on my arms

[@elliotholland2938]

Inspiring stuff ! :)

[@MiniQuest64]

Means a lot

[@fkkekejeb]

Fight on champ

[@artfulgamers4665]

YOU FUCKING RULE

[@MiniQuest64]

YOu too MAN!!!

[@spuriusscapula4829]

How are you doing now?

[@MiniQuest64]

Well I manage… Somehow :D Still not very stress resilient and going to doctor appointments still freaks me out, but I'm healthy and so is my wife =) I think these days are especially difficult for everyone. Anything specific you would like to know?

[@spuriusscapula4829]

@@MiniQuest64 nothing specific, just health-wise. Don't miss the appointments, and take care. Love your work. (from India, in case you're curious)

[@MiniQuest64]

Thanks man, very kind of you! :) How are you doing? How are things in India?

[@TheUnforgiven1993]

This is the most inspirational video I may have ever seen. Your optimism and bravery is beyond comprehension. It's not often I get emotional but it's simply impossible not to be. Your story really makes you think about your life and reflect on almost everything you do and have ever done and how you should live. Thank you for sharing this and I wish you the utmost happiness and joy that you deserve. Thank you for all the fantastic content that you share! khazukan kazakit-ha!

[@MiniQuest64]

Midgard Marauder, my dear Dawri, that's one hell of a comment! How do I even respond to something like that??? This is truly amazing. People like you are the reason all this work creating such a video is worth the struggle, thank you so much for being a supportive member of this community! I wish you nothing but the best for you, your family and loved ones

[@gimmertyfrog755]

incredible story, nice dwarves too, germany will surely be removed from the great book for that alone!

[@MiniQuest64]

An absolute honor :D Thank you for the watch my friend =)