Why you can't call yourself a pilot anymore

I've been grounded. I can't fly. So what do you do, and what do you call yourself when you can no longer do the thing that defines you? I talk about my situation, what I've been doing since I've been grounded, and why I think I can't call myself a pilot anymore.
More about me and my adventures: stef747.com
Behind the scenes, photos, and more video content: / stef747
Music by Epidemic Sound: www.epidemicso...

[@jimbo8888]

Once a Pilot, always a Pilot. You would only add the prefix "Ex" if you have decided never to fly again. My gut tells me you will be back with much more to offer than ever before.

[@jdavison8551]

Stef, the next time someone asks what you do, feel free to reply “ I make superb, top quality interesting KZbin videos, which entertain, educate and inspire people all over the world”.

[@robinrother1799]

Hi Stef, glad you're back. Let me tell you a story. I was sitting on Cathedral Green, the grass by the cathedral in Dornoch. The women were raising money with a coffee and cake do. I'm sitting, a bit awkward, outnumbered amid the bustling ladies. Then someone asks, how did I get there if I was in Edinburgh this morning (3 1/2 drive v. 45 mins flight)? I had a Commander at the time, and it was parked on the grass strip. This quiet old guy at the end of the table looked up when someone said, "Oh, Andrew used to fly." So, I moved over, and we had a chat. It turned out that Andrew had been known as Bomber Mackenzie, and he'd come over from Canada towards the end of WW2. He had flown behind Merlins in all sorts of aircraft and flew well into the transition to jets in the postwar years. So unassuming! We went to the airfield. Access to the Commander is usually easy. Andrew was in his early nineties. He was so stiff he had to have his feet guided onto the step. I had his hands and arms to help him up, with others offering support from behind. Andrew had not flown in decades and hadn't seen a glass panel. So, we got into the air, turned downwind, and I asked him if he wanted to take control. He'd watch, he said. We flew up the coast, and he recognised a monument in an area where he'd done a bit of low-level stuff. I turned towards the valley, and this time, he took control. And just like that, it was his aircraft. Wings level, ball in the centre, then we pitched down and followed the twists and turns. Then he had it all: power adjustments, trim changes, and even a little slipping. I could see it in his body language. I loved the look of confidence that had returned to his face. He did it all except the radio. He rejoined overhead, and we descended into one of those oval, tail-dragger circuits. I took over for the landing. I hardly touched a thing. It was in trim, and the power was good. I think that Andrew was ninety-two or three. Although he hadn't flown since his fifties, Andrew was still a pilot.

[@digitalpilotnm]

Once an Aviator, always an Aviator.. It never leaves you

[@JabFlyer1]

Totally agree!

[@parqld]

I got my PPL (GFPT) 20 years ago at Moorabbin. Have not flown since due to life issues, and may not be able to again. I still consider myself a pilot. It is the best 65 hours of my life, and no one can ever take that from me. I still love aviation and think about it every day. It’s a flame for me that will never die. 🙏🇦🇺✈️🛫🛩️🚁✈️

[@pjotrtje0NL]

Same here! I stopped 11 years ago, after two people I knew (and who flew much, much more than I was able to do) crashed in two separate events. But although I stopped, I’m still looking up for weather, and aircraft. I love everything aviation. And at some point, I’ll fly again. I know that.

[@steve_wilson]

38 years since my last logged flight. My _next_ logged flight will be this coming Thursday, going for an SLA endorsement on my glider PPL. Thanks to the inspiration of guys like Stef!!

[@kaharry055]

After 50 odd years ‘wanting to be a pilot’ I finally achieved my life long dream. Now I can call myself a pilot and always will, even after I’ve finished flying. That’s because you never ‘lose’ your pilot licence, you maybe not current, temporary or permanent but are still a pilot. Becoming a pilot is about acquiring a set of skills and once you have achieved that you have earned the privilege of being a pilot. Happy days!

[@AV8R767]

Stefan, you are always be a pilot in my view. So your flying is on hold for a while big deal you WILL fly again. Took me 18 months to get my medical back after cancer. The wait will increase your passion. We love your work pilot or not.

[@gregrtodd]

Damn straight Stef! Once a pilot, ALWAYS a pilot. It's a state of mind, as well as a job description. Once you've slipped the surly bonds of Earth, no-one -not CASA nor any other agency can take that away from you. I took a 25-year break from flying while my kids were growing up, and only came back to it in later life. But last year I was medically grounded for a bout of Atrial Fibrilation. So I'm not flying anymore, but it doesn't mean I'm not a pilot. I think like a pilot. I attack problems lika a pilot. Because I am a pilot. Just like you are.

[@HoltAircraft]

You're 100% a pilot mate! You're a part of the crew even when you're busted, we don't leave a man behind. Glad to see you're recovering and can't wait to see you in the left seat again.

[@beagle7622]

Yes you can . I say I was a private pilot about 20 years ago. What I can’t say is that I have achieved your achievement Stefan.

[@Darryl_Frost]

Final line was perfect: Don't forget, wherever you go, there you are.

[@donaldholman9070]

Buckaroo Bonzai

[@lukeemmo02]

Id say yes you can easily call yourself a pilot still. Im a qualified mechanic, 7 years ago I changed careers and joined the railway. Im not on the tools anymore but when people ask I still tell them im a qualified mechanic. So go for it. I do hope to see you fly once again.

[@RoutesAbove]

This is the video a lot of people needed, including me. This is great stuff to say the least. Do what you can and enjoy it at the same time. Who knows what might happen. The simulator comment is a great idea. Peace out, Brussell sprout

[@britannia079]

I heard someone say this recently (not about flying just things in general) and I thought it was spot on. "People often get really down when something isnt the way they hoped or expected it to be and treat it like a full stop. But with the benefit of hindsight you find 90% of the time it was a comma all along and the story continues". It just struck a chord with me, fingers crossed your flying again soon

[@seanmcerlean]

Hang in there Stefan. It will return & you have to think positively. Two examples here: One was losing my full time employment in 2020 following redundancy & then Covid 19. I thought what the hell am I going to do now @ 52 after a lifetime I'm commercial aviation The second came with my hypothyroidism diagnosis last year which grounded me as well. However you are doing exactly what I did,stay positive fight back but find things to keep you occupied at the same time. Today I have an AFISO licence plus a superb new job in aviation with Easyjet network operations. Back in the game as they say. Keep thinking & doing what you are & soon enough CASA will grant your privileges back to you. Reach out if ever you need. We all really want to see you back in the air again & soon. Take care 🙏🙌👍😄

[@gatestpilotpaulmsouthwick7012]

Stef we all hope and are sure you will indeed be back flying as PIC soon.

[@pslny]

Stefan, glad you are doing well!!! Don't give up on finding a way back to flying. Get through your treatments, then reassess! Praying for you brother.

[@petet968]

I've learnt that it's best not to use an activity as your identity. Like, ' I am a golfer, pilot, swimmer' etc. Just say; "I like to play golf, I like to fly etc. Same with jobs. Instead of 'I am a dentist' say, 'I do a dentist's job'. So if you lose the ability to do those things, you aren't losing part of your self. Separate your identity from your role. (See Eckhart Tolle "The Power of Now")

[@JayMcGowan]

Stefan. You have evolved beyond being a pilot. From watching your videos, I consider you an aviator of the highest calibre, and you always will be. The tactile, instant gratification of flying an aircraft is secondary to the ability to contribute to the safety and well being of fellow pilots, encouraging them to become aviators. After almost 30,000 hours of flying, retirement is not easy. Downsizing was the answer (I am VERY jealous of your aircraft. Mine weights in at 336 kg empty) and becoming a relief groundschool instructor at the local flying club (where I learned to fly in 1971). This has given me at least some time to come to terms with no longer having a license unlike you having to face such a sudden "withdrawal". Videos such as this only prove that you are a consummate aviator whether or not your hands are on the controls of an airborne aircraft. Eyes up and move forward. We need aviators like you.

[@No4murasame]

Honestly, Stefan, you keep making this video is comforting. Thank you for keep sharing this aviation video. (No, I am not putting quotes around aviation. These really are. BTW, don’t feel obligated though. I am just grateful that you are sharing. )

[@jamesplummer356]

You will always be a pilot You can’t take that experience away or the knowledge and the feeling of being in command so a machine going from A to B in marginal weather add passengers and it’s next level

[@nbrettoner]

Stef, love your final words (i.e. changing the atmosphere in the room; and in your own head! ). 🙏🙏🙏💞

[@jonathanbennett6610]

You're an inspiration. I'm sure there is no shortage of Pilots that would love to take you up anytime you want, myself included. I'm sure you'll be Pilot in command again in no time. Keep crossing the milestones 1 at a time

[@jnrolf]

Well I had a nasty set back a few years ago and all I did was transfer my time/skills to MS Flight Sim, shooting ILS approaches, cross wind landings, emergency landings etc... oh the things you can still do to keep fresh and have fun until the issue blew over are limitless on today's Sim... why not do your around the world bucket list rehearsal... Flight Sim is so amazing these days. When I came back to the flight line, I don't miss a beat, it saved my life...

[@eileendoyle6537]

Your name is Stefan and you're a really top bloke. Labels mean nothing how you are and how you treat people is what will be remembered

[@cappuccino_please]

thank you :) this is very good advice. I wanted to start a commercial pilot training in 2020, already had my approved medical and bought all the stuff like training books - but then it all got cancelled in the pandemic, I lost my full time job (which was supposed to pay for training) … … I started studying something else, had financial trouble and some medical difficulties. Now I have the books laying around, an expired medical class 1, expired exam software and still not enough money and health problems … … sometimes it makes me sad, when I see the books. I want to still read them but the motivation is not there, because who knows when or if I ever get into the cockpit? I want some day, but it is still a very long path. Your advice is very helpful :) one is not only a pilot in the cockpit, but the pilot mentality can be present in everyday life. I wish you all the best :)

[@julianturecek2373]

Without knowing the details, I really hope that it’s just a temporary grounding and that you’ll get your wings back, some day.

[@odril]

I'm going through the same in my job. Thanks for the advise with the physical exercise. I'll do that. Hang in there!

[@QNH1013-Aviation]

Hey Stef. Your positive mindset and your energy is so inspiring!I am currently going through a hard blow of fate. Maybe I'll tell you one day, but for now your videos help me a lot. Thank you so much! Keep going.

[@StefanDrury]

Whatever you're going through I wish you all the best. I hope your support network are looking out for you at this time and am really humbled to hear my videos help you right now. Big love from Melbourne.

[@nealsloan1036]

Stefan, Always love watching your videos and grateful you are doing well after surgery. Thank you for your advice on overcoming a disappointment of not being able to fly yet. I too think your permission to fly will come back to you and if it doesn't the knowledge you have gained and shared will help many people in the future. Keep looking ahead.

[@BrianGrinter]

Learnt to fly in 90s and a few year break for career, family, mortgage became 20+ years. I considered myself a lapsed pilot in that time, had a few sporadic forays back but now that circumstances have changed I'm back Hoping for a positive future for you too ❤

[@TrapperDavido]

It’s true. It’s happened to me. Someone shared with me a phrase that proved to be true as well. Breakdowns lead to breakthroughs. The next good thing is close by. Keep moving forward.

[@unicorn061a]

Still a pilot, just not current. You will be back in the air mate. 😊

[@alessandrobertini5176]

Legend, if you ever come to Heckfield again I'd love to shake your hand, you are an inspiration mate!

[@cleefy92]

You're more of a pilot than I've ever been, or ever will be! Wishing you good health and happiness Stefan.

[@Soyayabb]

Aviation world is too big and there are numerous roles to play in this world apart from being a pilot. Please stay in this industry and continue shinning!!!

[@earthwindflier]

This one hit close to home for me. I am a middle aged low time pilot that has made the conscious decision to back away from flying for a bit. While doing my last flight review while at the same time pursuing a tailwheel endorsement (and starting a business AND renovating a house), I started to question my aviation path. It started to feel more and more like I couldn't fly to the degree of building a decent amount of hours to to feel safer as a pilot. Flying became the distraction. It's time, effort, and real money. Working right on the downwind leg of one of the major runways serves as a constant reminder of what I am missing. But I am at peace with this chapter. While aviation is a big part of my identity, it isn't all of it. And we are still graced with the ability to experience flight. Thank you Stef for continuing to encourage...and all the best in your continued recovery.

[@mapleext]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts once again. It’s all about your inner self and you are doing so many positive things right now. Plus thanks for the gratitude reminder - I always forget!!!

[@rmd4209]

This dude explains difficult things in a simple way. Always! Thanks for this video Stefan! 😍

[@williammccann9372]

Just diagnosed with bladder cancer. After surgery I will have six treatments then hopefully fly once more. I called AOPA and they said after the cancer is removed and the Dr give you the ok I’m good to go. Thank goodness for Basic Med… Stefan you are an inspiration and I’m sure you’ll get back in skies. Good luck

[@thomasdavis5514]

Well done Steph. I went through something similar while my medical (USA) was withheld while I dealt with prostate cancer. Like you, I flew with other pilots and also flew my plane with an instructor just to keep it from sitting too long. I frequently pondered what I would do if I were to never get my medical back and have to stop flying. While I tried very hard to be positive and say that things could be far worse, my instructor and friend reminded me that what I was going through was not insignificant and that I was allowed to acknowledge that a big part of how I define myself, Pilot, was on hold. Nine months, surgery, and a clean bill of health brought my medical back, quickly followed by some instrument refresher flights and an IPC. So hang in there, know that you have permission to grieve a little, but most importantly, know that you are so much more than just a pilot.

[@rustyknight6190]

"You go in the direction of your most prominent thought" - aviation will always be apart of your life, I hope it involves lots more PIC! But also remember, you've done much more then most people AND you've taken us along for the ride, very grateful to you for that! I've always joked about getting a business card that reads "Human being" - the fact I do other things is somewhat irrelevant, be the best you that you can in the moment.

[@zzmike]

1100-hour private pilot, ASEL/Instrument here. I am sorry for your health problems. Good luck most definitely wished! I started flying later in life (45) and had to retire just under 15 years later as symptoms of old age (and, to be honest, the rigors of the Texas climate) just made it too much. I also had to give up playng the piano for the same general health reasons. But I still consider myself both a gifted pianist, and 1100-hour pilot. These are SIGNIFICANT life achievements and inborn talents, not many attain/possess, and, I think, like a Degree in [X], they cannot be taken away, just because you turn (or are forced to turn) away from [X].

[@reggieswings]

Great content mate. Good luck with your medical I hope you get it back!

[@aussiegarbo752]

Mate you WILL be a pilot forever and you WILL fly again. Don't let yourself down. All the best mate!

[@Coops777]

Thanks Stef for sharing. You are a wonderful inspiration to the aviation community.

[@linuxranch]

Medically retired pilot. Buy a good quality flight simulator. Work for a company that builds simulators, or other aviation equipment. They can NEVER take knowledge from you!

[@MyMagicalPeanut]

Was thinking the same thing.

[@PetraKann]

Great positive advice

[@intelligentdonut]

VATSIM might be a good option, with some nice quality gear. They are super focused on realism and you can start from a high-ish level because you still have a license

[@eddyjay83]

I'd say "pilot on medical leave", because for all intents and purposes, that's the fact. As soon as he's discharged he can work back to flying.

[@PetraKann]

@@eddyjay83 That is not the case. It has nothing to do with being discharged. There are some hurdles to overcome. Medication to prevent blood clots after surgery. Brain surgery to remove tumours usually involve a couple of months where you shouldn't board a plane, let alone pilot one.

[@paulrichardson6804]

Nice. …thanks Stefan , from all of us that have had to navigate knocks and to practice gratitude as you say..

[@spiro5327]

Can't wait to see you flying again Stef. I know this to be true. Thanks mate

[@kalvinnoble488]

Hiyazz Stef, from Eastern Canada! I know where you are coming from. I lost my pilot's medical (private and commercial) back in Jan., 2003 due 2 moderate brain injuries received from a bad wintery auto accident that almost killed me. Now, I suffered an acute clot-based stroke on the evening of Mon., Feb. 12, 2024, that has affected my right peripheral vision in both eyes but mainly my right dominant eye, and, has affected my balance somewhat. I figure now my chances of ever getting my pilot's medical back is extremely slim. I miss flying very much. I am daily reminded of what I enjoyed doing, since I live a 15 minute walk from the airport at home. I still have bouts of depression, stress, anxiety and such, mainly from the stroke. Keeping active in other activites, like work around the house, phyical exercise and hobbies, does help a lot. Thanks for sharing in what you when through and how you manage it. Glad to see you came out ok from your brain surgery. Kalvin N, former Pilot

[@bobloch]

If someone asks me, I say that I am a trained pilot, in November 2001 I got my commercial pilot license and I had an instrument license and passed the ATP theory, but after the attack on the WTC I have only flown 2 tourist flights on my certificate, but cterificat has been handed over to the authorities and I haven't flown since, I enjoy watching videos from you and others on YT, it feels a bit like you're out flying again and the long videos that some will feel as boring seem to me to be far better as I myself sit and think about when it is best to descend, so being part of the thoughts around the flight in progress is fantastic. I have no doubt at all that you will fly again, and I look forward to following along

[@letsseeif]

In 1957 I first flew. In 2000, I had major surgery and in 2024 I'm healthy and well. Keep feeling good about yourself and your loved ones Stefan. And keep enjoying aviation. 🙂

[@oscarwyer2771]

Your videos are so inspiring to me. Great videos.

[@Calebs_Aviation]

Great video Stefan. I’ve struggled with this concept as I received a heart transplant in Sept 2022 and hadn’t flown a plane since July 2022! However, I have now been medically cleared to fly again as I’m sure you will soon be too! Cheers mate! Caleb’s Aviation 😊

[@marsgal42]

You are, and will always be, a pilot. In your heart. In your soul. ❤ I had a phone call yesterday telling me that my deferred medical is no longer deferred and I'll have the paperwork in hand in a few days. It made my day. "WHG holding short 27 at Echo..."

[@marcelovine3576]

Great video! I survived stage IV kidney cancer. It took me 1 year to be in remission and another 4 years to get my medical certificate back. 3 years of back and forth with the FAA… when I got that approval I cried of happiness. That was 2 years ago… now I am an airplane owner and last year I flew 180+ hrs. Wish you the best! I share to encourage! Thanks again for your videos… I have been following you for years!

[@OldFliersGroup]

Former pilot, Stefan. Better described than "grounded". My last flight as P.I.C. was emotional. Memories remain.

[@PhilZamagias]

BTW, you have achieved more than most pilots. Lots to be thankful for.

[@peterjoyce7198]

Hey Stefan, l am also a retired PPL pilot but l still "fly" daily on my PC flight simulator. It keeps the flying knowledge active and l still get a lot of fun with it. Also , as a bonus, you can fly in rubbish weather and practice your IMC approaches. Keep positive. 👍

[@antonvons8559]

You are amazing. Maybe as you were alluding to, you don't have to call yourself a Pilot. Just call yourself someone who loves Aviation and Life and Adventure.

[@paulcoinc]

I believe once you are something you worked hard to achieve what you love doing then you are always that. Rather a singer, an actor or pilot. You earned that title and you deserve to use it.

[@purplegough]

Great video, Stef. It's important to keep perspective. This is just a blip (annoying for sure!) and you'll be back and flying again. And when you do get flying, you'll have greater appreciation of how privileged you are to call yourself a pilot.

[@simiot1]

Faith comes from hearing The Truth so, keep calling yourself a pilot & keep getting up in the air. Build that momentum...

[@DevanSabaratnam]

It's been nearly 4 decades since I was PIC of any aircraft, but I still call myself a pilot on my social media profiles (or at least 'former pilot'). It is an achievement I am proud of, and I learned so many lessons during that time that I still use in day to day life today outside of that industry.

[@Hukahey]

Yes I remember dad after being told he could not fly anymore and watching him adjust from cutting toilet paper over the low flying area to putting energy into his 10 Squadron mates and RAAF Europe roll was inspiring. So you will be a pilot again but you are a KZbinr and a great content creator so for the next months ahead show us some of the amazing aviation history here and overseas. Travel safe and keep those wings flapping you will be airborne as a pilot again soon.

[@StefanDrury]

This is such a motivating comment, thank you. There are so many interesting and inspiring stories from the world of aviation that I'd love to tell, you're right. Thanks for the push Hukahey.

[@Tazflyer]

This has been super helpful and encouraging mate. Keep being you and sharing the gratitude we all need in our daily lives.

[@StefanDrury]

Glad to hear it was helpful, thanks TazFlyer

[@stuartferguson7947]

From personal experience it’s all about the Recovery, we all have setbacks, it’s how we recovery that counts. Once many years ago I was a competitive tennis player, an injury put a stop to that, more recently my social skiing activities at the ripe old age of ### (> three score years and ten) have come to an end. Now let’s focus on you; never say never but are you aware there are other sectors of aviation you may be able to participate in and find just as rewarding, you may just need to put your wide angle lens on.

[@pfv3462]

Once a Pilot, always a Pilot. At least you have the positive attitude, and keep making these youtube videos! I as a retired military remain a military, it was like that all my life! Give lessons in a flight sim and you can pass on your knowledge! That way you keep your skills, until you can fly again! I have learned a lot from you, so thank you and never lose courage!

[@fngonzo]

I am looking forward to your Trapeeze videos. 🤣 Whatever you call yourself, I will be here.

[@skypilot2770]

Stefan, I know exactly what you are going through. I started flying at 12 and advanced through my private, instrument, commercial and multi-engine and was finishing up my CFI when, at 35, I developed a heart condition and was grounded. This year I will turn 68 and I am still dealing the grief of not being able to be PIC anymore. I am grateful that I did have that experience but God had other plans for me and that is ok...I still say I'm a former pilot. Still wish I was flying though! Best wishes and hope you get back to PIC soon.

[@janwatson7981]

Stef..you’re a qualified pilot,nothing will change that! So you’re not allowed behind the controls at the moment,that doesn’t mean you don’t know what to do if you were.! Hang in there….youll be back!

[@MerlinspopTBH]

Stephan - You’re a good person. There’s not nearly enough of those in the world. Whatever else you may do to occupy your time or earn a living, keep being a good person. People notice. Some may try to be good people, too. Because you showed them how. And you’re still a pilot.

[@netgoz30]

Thanks for sharing! It helps to hear

[@hkng2776]

I first watched your video in 2020 just before the COVID lockdown started. Your videos inspired me to start flight training in June that year. Now I'm a PPL pilot. Thanks very much.

[@JDtheBushwalker]

Love your philosophy of life mate! I recently took a redundancy from my career and am now looking at a career change. Similar, in a way, as my identity will be changing... You are an inspiration, and not only to those interested in aviation. Thanks for sharing, and as always, I'm looking forward to the next video.

[@moixdollASMR]

it's beautiful to see you, regardless of what happened, have such a hopeful outlook of life i really do agree to what you said! we should never limit ourself and be thankful for what we have here and now ❤

[@kieransutton-ryan8104]

Stefan you are a breath of fresh air on ytube yes you are still A pilot because you know that deep inside yourself you are pilot and your right you be anything you like as to many individuals worried what other people think ,really who gives a stuff anyway. And Stefan you alway Sim flying not the real thing could be an option .Love your honesty ,love your I bloody attitude about life in general ,keep up the good work we need you to keep us going insane cheers Mate

[@brianb5594]

Once a pilot, always a pilot Stef. I hope and pray you figure out a way to get that medical back. You are inspiring my friends. Keep after it!

[@rowanditcham9617]

Fantastic video, thanks for the advice

[@blatchpack1]

When you are grounded by bad weather still a pilot ..In my book you Will always be a pilot .I look forward to seeing you back flying . Yes we do tell everyone we are pilots because we can't believe it.

[@coinden3089]

Stef, you're a legend.

[@tonybeam]

And so say all of us. 🤩🤩🤩

[@shelleyclow]

Wonderful advice Stef, I truly appreciate your openness and honesty. I tell people I’m an apprentice millionaire. I love the different reactions I get.

[@emerald1541]

I was a student pilot in the belgian airforce until I've been kicked out after 2 years because of training progression that didn't meet their standards. I have dreamed and trained every day of my life for that job since I was a little kid, so your video really hits home there. Thank you for sharing your feelings and experiences !

[@kevintengvall4642]

very well said mate, I haven't flown a plane for 40 years but lately have been thinking about trying again. 6 years ago I had an aortic dissection and was medically retired, I have only just come to terms with that, like you I'm a lucky bastard. all the best mate.

[@jonnytailwheel]

Thanks for sharing, Stefan. Inspiring. Hope one day you can return to the skies as P1, but even if you can't, I am sure with an attitude like you have you will join the dots later and smile as you realise other doors opened to you. All the best.

[@StefanDrury]

Thanks Jonny, I'll control the things I can and enjoy the ride. I'm grateful for kind words, cheers.

[@climbmaintain]

Great video man. I’m a pilot for Delta, got my dream job in December last year and then a month ago hit a brick wall when I was diagnosed with hairy cell leukemia. I’m only 40. I’ve done the chemo and am currently waiting for my blood counts to come back but it’s been very hard for me because I always worked out and now I’ve lost almost 30 pounds of muscle and am staring at not knowing if I’ll ever be able to fly again. I’ve def cycled through all these emotions multiple times, hope you get back to it soon.

[@davidhunt3808]

You may not officially be a pilot anymore but aviation is in your blood it never ever leaves you. Find something aviation linked !!

[@charleszinkey]

Excellent video Stef, such an important message I think does all good to hear and be reminded of. I’m glad to see you doing well, and wish you a very bright future!!!

[@bucc5062]

I got my PPL in 1995, I stopped flying in 1998 because I could not afford to be a safe IFR pilot. I still consider my self as a pilot and that will never leave me. We are not defined by the now,but by that which we've done. You *are* a pilot, nothing, not even brain surgery can take that away.

[@WIngsWithoutBarriers]

I'll keep this video in mind if I cannot pursue a career as a Pilot. There is so much I can do to influence CASA to change their model. Yes I'll be distraught but I'm already flying with RAAus and now thanks to the class 5 medical, I'll be going for my RPL. I just need to find a job thats still involved in aviation to help fund this bottomless pit 😂. That joke at the end, got me in hysterics 😂

[@colintett6872]

Great video - excellent insights!

[@RadDougall]

Stef, I've watched your channel for years. I decided you're a Pilot, none of this changed that :) Hope you can be pilot in command again some day soon.

[@kevinheard8364]

Good for you, sir Fabulously valuable "insight for life".. Sincere thank you to you.

[@michaelt2682]

Once a pilot always a pilot. If you find yourself explaining weather or clouds to a friend, back to being a pilot. In the car and verbalise a “clear right/left” still a pilot! I spent almost a year ‘in a mild disagreement’ with AvMed, at risk of losing IFR & Night flying privileges, found myself in the same situation. From letting an IFR subscriptions to avplan expire, to stressing that I’d have my medical rescinded mid flight and be grounded an unable to get back home. Fortunately I’m through that now, and you will be before you know it!

[@StefanDrury]

It's wonderful to hear stories like this, thanks Michael, it gives me a lot of hope. I appreciate you sharing that and hope your flying is going well.

[@davevanbeers6944]

I’m sure you can call yourself a pilot, or aviator or KZbin rockstar for all I care. 😊 and I hope and pray you will get into your plane as the pilot.

[@ThatBobGuy850]

Stef, I had the opposite problem...sort of. When I was just learning to fly, I was impatiently stressing out because I wanted so badly to be rated and be a PIC. One of my wise instructors said to me, "Don't sweat it - you ARE a pilot. You might not have your license yet, but you ARE a pilot." I've never forgotten those encouraging words. Same with you - whatever happens, you ARE a pilot. And you always will be a pilot whether or not you have an official document from the government that says you are. So don't sweat it - you can still tell that to people at a party. Carry on! P.S. - I love your nose, it's not funny at all. It gives your face character ;-)

[@jamesanderson781]

Just remember acceptance doesn’t require the bigger picture that isn’t yet clear. Acceptance is just accepting what is right now even the lack of clarity! Hopefully can take the expectations away and help you live in the moment.

[@christinewhybrow8813]

You sir are a pilot! You can always claim that mantle, since the only one who can speak against that, is YOU. I've followed from the beginning, & was terrified that you might not survive this health crisis. Take your time, you have many friends who seem willing to get you back in the air, even though their landings seem to be a little better than yours :). Get better, and the rest will fall into place! I'm still enjoying your content, so you can also claim yourself a damn could videographer. Huge hugs.

[@brettknowles3582]

Yet another outstanding video from an outstanding guy !! perfectly stated mate ....Much admiration !!

[@fishhisy]

Just got my medical back in March, had a detatched retina, did the faa hoops for a medical flight test for my first class and now I'm good to go.

[@hotshot4512]

All the best to you Stef!!