What's my future as a pilot? An honest update

[@jetjock60]

Stef I'm a professional pilot. At the age of 55 I experienced 2 herniated discs in my neck which resulted in pain and severe loss of strength and motion in my dominant arm. After tests and consults it was determined I needed surgery. I postponed the operation by 6 months to take care of a parent who was coincidentally diagnosed with a terminal illness. Between my recovery and grieving it was over 20 months before I got back into a cockpit, and while I had kept up with regulatory changes, I was also rusty as hell at the controls. But that's what simulators are for! It's the old saying about the son asking his bushman dad "HOW are we going to eat this elephant? One bite at a time mate."

[@JohnSmithsAviation]

clickbate video

[@victorcurmi9631]

Once a pilot, always a pilot - you never forget, it is part of your DNA

[@motocomfort_de]

That's it! The rest is clickbait!

[@fiedlertimify]

As someone who’s taken years off from flying and gone back it will come back faster than you expect. You got this!

[@Dazza-u4c]

Agree, I have a 7 year break, had one hour training to get used to it again, then did a BFR and I was good to go. It came back very quickly, like riding a bike.

[@colindibdin768]

True. I took 14 years off and only needed 3hrs to pass the BFR. However I did a month of of study and practicing in my head to prepare myself.

[@oziflyer]

I second this. I had a 12 year break, mostly due to financial constraints. It's surprising how quickly it comes back. It does take work, but muscle memory is long. Getting back ahead of the aircraft is key. The best advice I got from an instructor was 'take your time, but always be doing something'. Out of the cockpit, keep up with regs, and make use of a simulator. Even home sims have come a very long way. If you can afford to throw a few k at a good setup, that time, even though not loggable, can be hugely beneficial when it comes to getting back in the air.

[@rjrummer]

I also took a 12 year break and faced similar doubts coming back. It will come to you surprisingly fast, and as always in aviation, just step-by-step expand your comfort zone. You’ve got this!

[@reubenmorison8149]

You flew just fine on your last trip with Philippe, you'll be fine. Renew the annual, and fly dual instead of solo. That way when you're eligible to get your medical, you're fully current and ready to go.

[@aussiegarbo752]

Good luck bro EYZ will fly with you in it once again. You have your friends and us behind you! I personally believe in you!

[@StefanDrury]

I appreciate that, thank you

[@aussiegarbo752]

@@StefanDrury As always your very welcome!

[@HookedOnUtah]

Stef, don't give up. I can tell you from personal (very similar) experience, you can do it. Just do all that the FAA requires or the Australian version, then get your CFI and get current. You will love and appreciate flying more than you ever did before. Once you realize it can be taken away from you with one visit to the doctor you realize how much you love it. Thanks for sharing.

[@FlyWithPhilippe]

Stef, I normally don't comment on videos but you are one of the reasons I got into flying in the first place in 2022. Fast forward 2 Years and I passed my CPL Checkride a few weeks back. Your videos are so inspiring! I fully understand the feeling and your anxiousness to get back into EYZ, however I am certain you still have it in you! Take your time, take it slow and steady, we are here with you all the way! Can't wait to see you again in EYZ as PIC sometime in 2025.

[@PeterArnold1969]

Stefan, I admire your honesty with yourself. Take one day at a time, mate, and see where it leads you.

[@marshalllavin8254]

Wonderfully honest video!! I will tell you don’t give up and don’t sell yourself short! First and foremost, continue down the road to fly again for you! Your fight to return to flying will not only benefit you, but provide a roadmap for so many others hoping and looking for inspiration to continue their fight. Looking outside in, you are doing an amazing job of getting yourself ready! Wishing you the very best in health and flying! M

[@cardinaldriver4112]

Don't ever give up. I did, for a minute, and I couldn't stop thinking of anything else but flying. Keep going. it is perishable, but that's what instructors are for. Keep going Stefan!! Love the Why!

[@SouthernSunTV]

Gosh you’ve come a long way as a film maker, that was so beautifully told, mixing the analog of photos that evokes such great memories of another time, with your heartfelt thoughts and concerns. Thanks for sharing. And yes, as many others have said, You’ve Got This.

[@samsortino9346]

You’re an amazing story teller Stef! I got hooked on your aviation content to start with but it’s your ability to bring a story alive is what I enjoy. I really hope all goes well in March 25. I’ll be watching what ever content you create. Good luck mate!!!

[@spagnuolo1990]

Stef.. I was wondering less than 2 days ago how you were going RE flying again. And no word of a lie I drove past you today on Burke Rd in Camberwell. And today I was recommended one of your vids. Is it a sign! Maybe? Maybe not? Either way it gave me joy to see you. Keep it up and remember aviation content is not just flying. I watch your channel because of you, not just the avgeek stuff. You got heaps of growth an evolution to go in the industry! (Aviation and content) Take care and don’t give up mate 👍

[@anybody1955]

I am amazed at your honest assessment of your situation past, present, and most importantly, your future. So many individuals would jump back in with both feet as soon as possible; prove they still are the same as before their setback. The lesson here extends way past your own aviation journey. It applies to all of us regardless of our situation or setback. Thank you

[@flyflagaus573]

I say B S Stefen you can not give up. My story and the hurdles ive had to jump through have been a nightmare. But the 24th of November I passed my RPL. It’s watching your videos and your passion that’s helped me tremendously. Keep going your an inspiration.

[@mattzepher6486]

See, you didn’t even start the engine in this video and we all adored your story telling and vulnerability. The ‘why’ for you may have started back at that air show, but the ‘why’ for so many of us had a lot to do with your KZbin channel and other pilot blogs. I just finished my CPL multi IFR and about to begin my flight instructor rating, and I really thank you for being a part of MY ‘why’ to keep going. I truly hope you get back on the horse asap :)

[@ivanivanovich5904]

good you have money for all of those licenses, counted 50k here

[@mattzepher6486]

@ debt I’ll be paying off for a long time. Much more than 50 haha

[@StefanDrury]

This is a lovely comment, thank you Matt. And congratulations on your pilot journey so far, that’s such a great achievement.

[@antbrownefiji]

As a professional pilot who broke an ankle and was grounded for 12 months, I know how it feels. But remember why you did this in the first place. Get the aircraft airworthy again and go flying with other people. That's what I did. It will totally change the way you feel and hopefully keep that flame alive.

[@FlyShamu]

Stef! It will come back to you FAST. Don’t give up buddy. Flyin’ is in your blood. 🤙

[@flytoinspire]

Between my dad who's a PPL, you and several other youtubers (and working at an airfield) it finally gave me the push to embark on my own PPL. Having just this week flown off the last of my solo hours and with less than 10 hours dual instruction left. I've nearly made the dream come true of that 5 year old boy, looking up at the sky and wishing he could fly an aeroplane. One bit of advice I've been given almost constantly in aviation is "every day is a learning day" but that doesn't mean you HAVE to learn something new, you can RELEARN things, like arithmetic, a language, a skill, like an instrument or flying. Yes, skill fade is real, I experienced it myself after not flying or 3 months due to finances, and my instructor soon had my skills sharpened in no time! keep at it Stef, you're a good pilot and an advocate for getting people into the cockpit around the world. That is one heck of an achievement in itself. I'm looking forward to seeing you as PIC of EYZ in 2025!

[@becsterbrisbane6275]

Today really is the day for dreaming! You definitely have this Stef! I just got a life changing email myself just 3 hours ago- I finally get to fulfil a dream I started 25 years ago of becoming a teacher but never completed studies. Now the QLD government has offered to help train me up with all the skills I do have & I finally get to complete a dream I had years ago :). I have full confidence that you'll be back in that cockpit in March next year- please don't 'rush' it as you've said, but you're on the right path with taking regular flights over the past few months with others!

[@AsherWeinstein-m7n]

Stef I still remember doing my first solo I was in the northern bay instructor hopped out and I remember after getting clearance to taxi 17L and I heard EYZ cleared to land and I got so happy and my nerves went away “butter btw” but don’t give up stef all your fans on KZbin and Ymmb all have your back ❤

[@impulseaviation253]

I started watching your video within a minute of it being uploaded. When it was finished I was sad. Not that you made me sad Stef, but the fact that the good people in this world who like to make others happy get dealt a bad hand is what makes me sad. I haven’t replied until now because I just didn’t know what to say and thinking the one pilot / youtuber I would want to meet one day is yourself, of all the channels I subscribe to, yours was the first and still is one I receive notification for. I hope you do get back flying as PIC not only when you can, but when you want too. Just remember when you do rewind and look back in life, what you will find is many achievements you have accomplished and also will find the passionate people who watch your videos will still be here. Take care of yourself, yesterday, today and tomorrow David

[@samuelsmith9476]

Stef you don’t understand how much I appreciated that message at the end. I am balancing getting my IR currently while working a full time job and taking care of a pet with terminal cancer. Thank you for reminding me why.

[@StuTheFarmer]

I didn’t fly for 11 years before getting back into it. Went solo after about 4 lessons. Watching your videos got me keen to go back. Money has been tight but when you love flying you can never give it up. Not even if you want to!

[@PatrickMachado-kp7ml]

You definitely have lots of people rooting for you - myself included! The passion you have for flying comes through so vividly in all your videos. My bet is that passion will carry you through this temporary pause, and that we’ll all be watching your new flying videos for many the years to come 😎

[@seanhagmaster6674]

Blue skies ahead brother. These next few months will fly by. Looking forward to seeing you back in the cockpit

[@stephenryan747]

Will you have forgotten things when you go back? Yes of course. The fact that you are already thinking about it makes you safer than a lot of other pilots. A pilots licence is a licence to learn, and we'll all be here to follow you along that journey in whatever form it takes.

[@generickiwi]

I understand the doubts and the worry, and I love and respect you for being so honest about it. However, *I* doubt that you will fail to flourish, and I worry that one day there will be so much more Stef content that I get left behind. Stef, I would watch you ride along a city street on a one wheeled skateboard, based solely on your honesty and integrity, and willingness to share your happiness with those of us who use it to boost our own.

[@ThorPalsson]

I deeply sympathies with you Stefan - Behind the scenes not being able to fly must be heart breaking But on the brighter side I am happy that your surgery was such a great success - As a caregiver in hospice I am relieved that you were spared that cruel fate I encourage you to ask for support on Patreon - If anyone deserves our support, its you

[@_NicBP]

Speedy return to the sky, Stef. Hope normality returns quickly, but at the same time, you are right, it's all about taking it slow, slowly rebuild yourself in confidence. Stop, take a breath and enjoy the scenery.

[@haniff4277]

Stef, stay strong and POSITIVE

[@peterjoyce7198]

Thanks for another great video and I'm glad to hear you're on the mend physically. You have plenty of time to get back into it before March by flying the Cirrus in one of the computer based flight simulators to build up your confidence again snd even brush up on your instrument flying. Best wishes to you in getting your pilot wings back in 2025. 👍

[@danielsharples2735]

Needed this today.

[@PhilZamagias]

Stefan. Don’t worry about the 18 month hiatus. I had a 5 year break and got back into IFR flying in a high performance single with glass cockpit. It felt weird getting back into the cockpit but it soon came back to me. My instructor and examiner were great and I had some the best flying of my life after that. I’ve watched your videos with great admiration for your application to the task. You’ll be fine. 😊

[@Badge-vo7hq]

I too had brain surgery for a benign tumor back in 1998. Fast forward to 2016 the perfect opportunity for me to follow through with my life long dream happened and I began ground school. Afterwords I began flight training logging 30 plus hours when my instructor told me it was time to get my FAA physical. I passed the exam with flying colors only to have my application rejected by the FAA for the surgery all those years ago. I quit flight training for several months and after having my family and friends encouraging me I attempted again for my medical only to be rejected again. I’m basically a fitness nut and have been since prior to my surgery so it was such a gut punch to be rejected. That being said I’m living my flying dream watching creators like you Stephan so please don’t give up. You’ll regret that for the rest of your life, trust me. I’m pulling for you sir.

[@joecastro2153]

Stef, Joe here from Orlando,Florida. I’m a big fan of you and your YT channel, thanks for sharing your story and all that you’ve been going through with your life. You know, part of wanting to follow your channel is not because you’re a pilot, but because you want to share life, real life moments. So don’t stop! As hard as it can be for you not being able to fly, keep showing us LIFE, as it is. Let us go thru this with you, that way your victory will be ours as well. Keep “flying” thru life my friend! You are very good at!! Cheers!!

[@joecastro2153]

Oh! One last thing, just like the airplane you fly was invented by someone and needs the so called “annual inspection”, you were also invented, created by someone who knows exactly what you need right now so maybe is time to check back with your creator so HE can do a “annual” inspection on you haha that’s the best thing that can happen to anyone! God Bless you Brother ☺️✈️

[@brettknowles3582]

Stef, its not easy and I can completely understand your situation. However, in the relatively short time youve been an aviator, you have achieved incredible adventures and aviation journeys beyond the reach and capability of many others including some of us aviators!. The ability also to capture magnficiently every aspect of audio and visual perspective of your jpurneys and engage the audence like you do so well is remarkable. You have brought immense joy and satiisfaction to many thousands of people watching and following in your path. Well done and thanks for your adventurous spirit and story telling.

[@dalsheim]

When I broke my leg, I was grounded for about 4 months. As soon as I was cleared, I started taking lessons. I couldn’t believe how rusty I was. Eventually, my instructor told me I was sharp, and I took a few more lessons. Even though it was a shorter grounding, I’m older than you and had concerns. I can’t tell you how glad I am that I stuck with it and I’m a better pilot today. An earlier comment suggested that you start flying with an instructor now so you’ll be sharp when you’re cleared. Agreed! Your love of flying has been important to many of us and we all know it’s important to you. Stay with it; we’re all behind you!!!

[@cervelott]

Congrats on beating the tumor, that's a hell of an accomplishment. Getting back to flying...well that's easy in comparison! Well done.

[@yveaux500]

8:37 Wow the emotion in your voice. As a fellow pilot who had a similar experience I truly felt that. Indeed be true to that 6 year old boy at Biggin Hill. We all still have that kid in us who had dreams. But over team most of us ignore these dreams. We persisted and made the dream come true. I lost my commercial pilots license due to some medical issues a few years back. Took a lot of effort to get back. Was for grounded over 2 years. Could not get my medical back right away. Took a lot of patience. But when I went back in the cockpit, all the things I learned came back very quickly . So don't worry about that part. But don't rush indeed! And that first solo after all the BS I had to put up with (from the local CAA) felt even better than my first solo. Keep going on this path. Keep that 6 year old close to your heart! You' ll be fine.

[@ArtwholeVideo]

As Churchill said. Never, never, never give up. I love aviation and have been involved for over 50 years, I’m at an age where I should be retired but I can’t give up. I work night shifts as an engineer on the latest technology commercial aircraft so I don’t have to give up. (You flew on one of the aircraft I work on at night) I understand your drive so don’t give up. I love your videos keep your wings on, I’m not interested in seeing you garden, or build furniture, or fix cars, you are a pilot and a human with humility and that’s what I like to see. Stay well and stay aloft. Love your work YJ.

[@adriandigby9813]

Stef, I really admire your openness in sharing your story and your videos since you stopped flying are as powerful, if not more, than when you were up in the skies. And your story resonates with me. I was in the RAF for three years training as a pilot, but an injury meant I lost my medical and had to leave. It took me 25 years to finally get back into the skies. Last year, with the time and resources to pursue it, I went all in, and you're absolutely right, stepping back into flying after a long break comes with its own set of nerves, especially as we get older. What I found, though, was that the love for flying never fades. With the help of an amazing 23-year-old instructor, I was “ready for my test” after a few hours, but I still had to complete the full 45 hours and loved every second. I realised that it wasn’t just about the flying itself, it was about the joy of learning, pushing my limits, and the unique connection with instructors who challenge and expand your capacity. When you get back into the cockpit, your passion will carry you through, and the proficiency will return faster than you think. It’s an incredible feeling to rediscover what you’re capable of, and I have no doubt you’ll thrive. Keep sharing your journey, it's inspiring to so many. Blue skies ahead!

[@oziflyer]

"It’s an incredible feeling to rediscover what you’re capable of" - absolutely 100%!! I'd give this comment 100 likes if I could. I had a 12 year break from flying, and I know this feeling!

[@AlphaKilo.Warrior]

I hope things work out for you brother. I’m glad the surgery went well. I took 10 years off. It’s okay to take a break. You belong in the air, however so you will get up again. That I’m willing to bet money on

[@uhaberma]

Stef, you will fly just as good as before. You love it and you will be great, I’m sure of it!

[@mwmentor]

Hey Stefan - the road is long and sometimes really hard - you know that - but just as hard as it might be, so too the reward at the end of it is huge - keep persevering and stay strong. You can do this and you will come out stronger and better than you may think right now. Keep on going. And by the way, it's okay to be sad, but just be gentle on yourself, and be patient. Take care my friend. Looking forward to your next video!

[@RNormanConcepts]

Get back into it at your comfort level. Fly with other pilots who can call you out on spots you may be rusty. And congratulations on your recovery and may you have good health! Blue skies and tail winds!

[@michaelshaw8370]

Stay strong, everyone hopes that you can get back to enjoying flying even if for a while you have to fly with a second pilot? Look how much you have improved over the last year. Maintain the curve and hope for the best for the future.

[@marty_k87]

Hang in there Stef! As someone who has personally had to give up on my aviation career (not medical) I know how you feel. Thanks for the content and hopefully we will see you flying again soon!

[@depperson89]

Stef, your videos are so freaking good. The pacing, the editing, the shots, the message.

[@heypresto9605]

Totally inspiring Stef. We found our why during our trip from Australia to Europe including time with our family in England for 5 weeks in June & July. So in Late February 2025 we are off to do our lap of Australia. Who knows where this journey will take us. But for us it's the adventure. Thank you for the quality of your content and when you next pilot over Surrey Hills( & I know you will) take a photo!

[@lauraandalex]

I love how humble you are. One step at a time. I can't wait to see you back flying again... and really hope that it happens.

[@PA28-pilot]

go for it Stef, it will make you happy to fly again. It's almost like riding a bicycle, you never forget how to do it and your flying experience is not lost.

[@WebsterConsulting]

I learnt to fly in Australia and watching your videos reminds me of those joyful times. You appear to have overcome so much so far and I'm sure you'll find a way to overcome whatever blocks your dream Keep flying if you can.

[@steveemail1007]

Stef - don't ever let go of your dream! Doubts because of absence are natural - but that's your dream poking you, reminding you of how much fun it is. Like others who have posted here I went away from aviation for years but have come back to it and am loving every moment. The time away has made my flying now even more fun and savoured even more! Relax now, take your time, maybe pick up the books every now and then, play flightsim and enjoy life! Then get back in the cockpit and fly your heart out! We're cheering you on mate! And well done for sharing.

[@Klink330]

Mate, so many of us were grounded during COVID - professional aviators who took for granted that we would fly until retirement. Then, suddenly and without warning, we were no longer able to pursue our passion and our calling for periods that varied from months to years. The reason I mention this is that we all wondered if we could get back into “the saddle” and fly to the standard we were at before the pandemic. Almost to a man/woman, we found that we had very little cause for concern; it was like getting back onto a bike. Yes, we had a little wobble or two at first, but that all sorted itself within the first hour or two (of sim in my case). You are a pro too! You have a great attitude towards your flying and that is the foundation of competency. The feeling of unease at returning to flying is perfectly normal. Dive in head first and stop worrying😊. I look forward to the first video.

[@kraizy1]

The past 12 months has been pretty full on in my household with alot of crap going on, after 12 months i pushed myself to get back on track with my flight training, after a couple of hours flying i forgot how much i loved flying, Don't give up you can do this

[@naoki_star581]

You got this, Stef. Keep it up! Little by little, but one day, you will get back into the cockpit! Just don't forget you have the whole community behind you!

[@BainsAviation]

Can’t wait to see you back man! Taught me a lot personally in this video. Appreciate it!

[@Hsv1ddr155]

Simply, inspirational. Don’t give up!

[@milk-it]

You'll get up there again soon, Stef. March isn't far away. I've had to put flying on hiatus a few times due to work over the last few years - sometimes for just over a year. After a check-ride with an instructor to make sure everything is ok, the next flight solo is like you had never stopped. Flying is somewhat a perishable skill, but when you love flying as much as the next pilot, you never forget once you start again - it's almost like riding a bike.

[@Tasboy2]

Don’t give up, this is something you love. Not the same situation as you, but my story. I ran the NYC marathon with you last year, I was even in your video. This year I watched the marathon from my hospital bed where at the time my body barely knew how to walk and had totally forgotten how to run. After some intensive therapy I am now back walking (still with a little difficulty) and yesterday I was able to do my first Parkrun in months. During that Parkrun I was able to take my first steps of a run. It wasn’t far and it wasn’t fast, but you couldn’t wipe the smile off my face! I was back doing what I love! That very short and slow run was my best run, better than my marathons better than all my other races! Despite still having a long way to go I felt like I was back and that now I will be ok.

[@DavidBiro]

Stefan, I think you are already doing it, but the best way to keep most of the skills recent is to jump on the sim. MSFS 2020 + VATSIM can really help to keep procedures, IFR comms, planning skills etc. up to date. Once you get the medical back, you get a few hours with an instructor and you will be good to go! (at least that is what I am telling to myself after not flying for ~4 years.)

[@Hopkinsracing56]

Great to see such an honest update Stef. At 31 I experienced a similar medical condition that required brain surgery and I had to stop flying, at the time I was actively using a commercial license and was completely devastated by the event. I thought I would never fly again and literally changed my entire life without flying. At 46 I managed to pass a class 2 and kicked off the process of getting current again, after a couple of months I got over the feeling of being behind the aircraft and was comfortably flying around the country in a 210. You will get back up there mate, and it's worth the wait when you finally do.

[@lawlsadob9094]

Hi Stef! Longtime follower of your channel here and thank you for another amazing video! :) I’m currently in a similar situation, unsure of when I’ll be back in the cockpit, and I often worry if my dream of becoming a professional pilot will ever come true. Right now, it feels so far out of reach. But hearing your story has sparked a bit of hope in me and reminded me to hold onto that childhood dream of mines. Thank you for sharing your journey as always and inspiring so many of us.

[@dwillecke]

No Doubt you’ll be able to do it. Just take your time and you’ll be surprised how quickly it all comes back!

[@mingalababya]

Absolutely. I had a long break from flying and only resumed flying professionally at 42 years of age. 15 years later, I’m flying the A320/A321 on mostly international routes out of Australia. Never say never, never give up.

[@ftxaviation]

I believe in you, you will get back in the air. You just got to take it slow and focus on doing things one step at a time.

[@mjtbarry]

A few thoughts Stef if I may: 1 if cash is tight we would all chip in to get EYZ maintenance completed; 2 as others have said you are clearly fit and healthy and should get up with an instructor to practice skills; 3 the long road back will make great content! Go well mate!

[@GuardianSmurf]

What an incredible journey - what an incredible story and particularly the words on the table. Here's to your continued recovery, I don't doubt that you will - at some point - be back PIC in your aircraft. And the first time that you slip those surly bonds and dance the sky, you will smile so hard!

[@lucmatter9601]

You can always pick up chair flying wile going through all flying procedures, including emergencies. It not only helps you to stay sharp, it increases your piloting skills. Good luck getting back in the skies, happy landings

[@Oh-Wells]

Beautiful storytelling Stef, thanks for sharing this part of your journey with us. Your content from the right hand seat, and on the ground, has been fantastic to watch as always. We'll all be here in March, and beyond - don't rush it.

[@lukemolloy2971]

Stef, your videos got me flying again. Not only flying but flying my own plane. I know the feeling you are experiencing. That feeling of uncertainty turned into 'yes I bloody can' because how EYZ and it's pilot inspired me to. You're a great storyteller who has the abilty to create content beyond aviation. Your stories resonate with your viewers. Your story returning to the air here in Australia as PIC is going to inspire a lot of people. A day at a time mate. It'll be worth the wait and one heck of a story!

[@FD1991]

I'm glad you're not giving up. Flying is a perishable skill, but you can also gain it back!

[@osint1on1]

Hey Stef! It is possible. I hit a rough patch as well and was not able to fly for quite a while... you got this... you really do and it´ll bring a lot of your world back!! Keep up the fight and simulators are great and fly as much as you can with someone else!!

[@ianlevy8765]

Another heartfelt vid. Slow and steady she goes, like all things aero, never rush. It will be a better day tomorrow.

[@RV7FlyPer]

You make such great videos - I am a huge fan with only 140 subscribers, but I can see that the passion for aviation still burns with you. what about a patreon community to support your content creation ? Hang outs to discuss all aspects of flying ? early content etc etc.... just a thought. Do you have owner assisted maintenance in Australia ? that you can pull covers, cowlings and other stuff that takes time - to get a lower cost of the maintenance ?

[@ScottMichell]

I love watching this story evolve........You got this and you will be enjoying your flying in your own plane again soon enough.

[@spectremcg6828]

Found your channel a little while ago. I'm on my way to getting an RPL at the moment as my first little stepping stone into the aviation world and losing the medical has always freaked me out a little, but its so incredibly inspiring to see how you persevere in the face of this adversity. Amazing video Stefan, thank you and i can't wait to see you back in the air :D

[@leonardgoldberg2424]

Thanks for sharing. I stepped away from flying for a very long time and thankfully I returned to flying and enjoying it despite all the challenges and motivation. I look forward to seeing you return to flying and your passion.

[@lukeos1160]

Keep going mate, eventually you’ll be ready to fly!! And I’ll still be here watching every moment!!

[@stephenmccullan]

Thanks for a wonderful candid video. Mate I think flying is like riding a bike, one ride around the block, and it will all come back to you. The universe has given you a second chance, get back into it (and this applies not just to flying) and squeeze all you can out of this life. You will no doubt be perfectly safe and enjoy it even more than before. I own VHCZR and these days my biggest issue is having a reason to go flying and finding people to share it with.

[@SuperTipper2010]

I was diagnosed with a pituitary Brain tumor on June 19th 2024. Had a successful surgery one week later and have had clear MRI’s at three months postoperative . I have to say it’s been one of the hardest things to process but I am very grateful for a successful surgery . Physically I feel great. However, I feel like I have been left in a weird catch up mode. it’s hard to describe a feeling of being just a little off. But I’m confident that I will return to 100% . With your passion for Aviation I have no doubt you will be back to doing what you love very soon. It was awesome to see you pull that bird from the hanger and get her cleaned up. I’m an A&P in the US I can help with that annual LOL . Hang in there! It’s gets better.

[@StefanDrury]

Hey, sorry to hear you had to go through that but that's great news that your surgery went well and your post-op scans are showing nothing residual remaining, that's what we all hope for in those 3/6 month scans. I can very much understand that feeling you speak of, it's not something I've shared much about pubically here but I hear you and understand what you mean. Thanks for the kind words of support. Allow me to reflect that back to you as well, I wish you all the best in your recovery process and hope you can get back to a stronger, better version of yourself in 2025. Nice to hear from you, thanks for being open and sharing your story with me and the community here. Take care mate, stef

[@Cottageguy2010]

I agree with everything you said in the video but i agree also with the other comment about flying with another pilot to keep your head in the game until you have the medical back. Then you will be much more current!! Go get this!! Keep that dream alive!! Best to you!! Awesome channel!!

[@rv-ation9603]

I walked away from an aviation career and stayed away for almost 21 years. I never even went to an airport during that time. About 4 years ago I bought an airplane and completed a BFR (after fighting with the insurance company to convince them my odds of flying my new LSA were favorable with several thousand hours of flight time in 40+ different types). I just fly for fun now in VFR weather (I did my time in the junk!). I was nervous about whether or not I could still do it. Well, turns out, it is just like riding a bike, but I took it slow, found a good instructor and enjoyed my re-acquaintance with the air! I studied, accepted that I'm older/slower/rustier, took constructive criticism from my instructor (one thing I think having flown commercially provided me- lack of an ego, always learning, and I was used to screwing up and being critiqued!). You can get it done! You've done it before, this time you have the benefit of experience! I wish you all the best and most importantly, you are alive to seek the enjoyment.

[@shahmirous]

Never give up, I share my passion of flying with you. Hope you can get your licence back and see you up and above again.

[@wytchend]

Do not give up on your dreams Stefan. It's like a sports injury........Limp,Walk, then Run again. Good luck mate. You know what to do

[@kevinheard8364]

Incredible respect and appreciation for your candor ... even the very touching comments (which I attribute to a man with immense integrity) .

[@JustJack327]

In my experience, the only thing that happens quickly in aviation is the flying itself. The rest takes a fair bit of time. From my perspective, to be a safe pilot it requires commitment. There are two ways one can be committed to flying. Either you have some sort of NEED for flying or you have the PASSION for flying (or perhaps a bit of both). Aircraft ownership can be known to be a bit of bankruptcy kit and can test ones passion. Don't ask yourself whether if you CAN do it. I've been following your channel way back when you had less then 5,000 subscribers. I can say that you still have passion for flying. It just might look a bit different from when you left off. You CAN do this. The question you should ask is do you WANT to do it. I can understand if aircraft ownership is no longer viable. The last thing anyone wants to see is EYZ sitting collecting dust. But don't be too quick give up flying all together. Flying can make you a better person. Flying will always be there if you really want it. Flying always waits for you.

[@nicholasdalaris9375]

Such an inspiration. Especially as a student pilot taxiing around YMMB seeing EYZ from time to time really is special even if the occasional taxi to maintenance is a long walk from the flight school

[@Boppo234]

Tough luck, mate. Sorry to hear this, but it could be much worse. I'm glad you have your health back. You're only a young bloke. You've got lots of life ahead. Enjoy it.

[@julianneale6128]

I'm watching your video, as I sit in a hospital bed. I recently started fainting, and with every test they do, they can't find a thing wrong with me. So I'm contemplating the same as you. All the very best with your recovery, and I hope you're flying soon. Cheers!

[@pete_bluscorp7718]

You’ve got this Stef & we will be here to follow the journey, let’s do this 1 step at a time

[@aymxdd]

This resonates so much to me: I was a glider pilot from 2015 to 2017 during my high school years and because I moved out for college and got into active life I still to this day crave the need to get back in a cockpit, but never managed to get either the time or the money at the same time. Having my PPL license is still my biggest todo goal today !

[@stevetravelsaus]

All the very best for the future, Stef. Looking forward to more content in the future.

[@WestonIrr]

As an aircraft owner I really appreciate this video. That said I would encourage you to keep your plane in annual. It can really have a negative impact on the value of the plane to have gaps in those records and it also might lead to future issues getting it back into working order. Perhaps find was you can fly. Find a safety pilot that will sit right seat, maybe work with an instructor to do monthly currency flights under their medical. Lots of old timers use this sort of flying to stay in the cockpit. And that would allow you to more seamlessly get back at it once you renew your medical! Glad you are keeping the dream alive!

[@PureGlide]

Have you considered taking up something different like gliding, to cover a few months leading up to your medical 1 year review? You'll have to go through the training with instructors for a while before you can fly solo anyway. And it would keep your flying current. Or just fly with instructors in your plane closer to the time of getting your medical?

[@BenSoar]

I love your comment, Tim. I found myself thinking the same thing. I've always hoped Stef might be interested in giving gliding ago. It is such a special kind of flying i think all pilots should experience.

[@jordandegraaff]

We’re going to keep watching whatever you put here and supporting your return to flight! You totally deserve an Emmy in the meantime for this video!

[@mschrappe]

Life happens. We have about the same age, apparently we took our Private Licence about the same time, you followed your passion and lived a full life in aviation for more than a decade, I in other hands had a business outside aviation and only flighted only as a hobby. Passed the pandemic I couldn't renew my medical, though I'm fit and haven't flying since. But I had no plans to abbandon it. There are simulators to keep the practice and after that the readaptation flights and rechecks. You don't have to give up your dream too. I'm certainly not! It's like you said, is the least you can to for that passioned little boy! Keep going! Keep flying!

[@s3048161]

Stef because of your video and childhood dreams, I started learning in a SR20 at age of 39, and almost 2 years later, I’m about to get my PPL, please don’t give up flying

[@FalcoGeorge]

Tough situation for you. As someone whose flying career ended from a recent event I can say life goes on if it comes to that. On another note. I trust you have spoken with a LAME with regard to engine storage while your aircraft is not used. All the best.