[767Jockey]

All,

I waited for a while to respond because I don't want to come across as emotional and whiny, although doubtlessly I will. I was sent a lengthy PM from a man whom I have never met, yet who’s words hit home for their sincerity, concern and kindness. Paul, thank you so much. Not being much of a writer, I lifted some of the thoughts that I wrote back to him and inserted some of them here, because I got lucky and came up with words to express my gratitude to him, and they ring true for all of you as well.

That being said, I can't tell you all how moving it is to read all the kind things that you've all said. I'm somewhat overwhelmed by the outpouring of concern from everyone here. It is indeed very hard to give up on this project, as it is truly the dream of a young boy from West Islip, NY, who would look for hours at the pictures of a blue and white Cobra on his wall. I promised myself way back then that one day I would have one just like it. In some small way, the promise was kept. I have explored high and low a way to get this car done. I even looked for a way to get it done so that I could drive it, if even for a week, and then sell it. However, at the end of the day my finances have been driven to a point where I simply cannot afford to keep it any longer. The costs for treatment will be high, and I promised my children and my ex that I would help pay for college and the last thing I want to do is go back on my word to my daughter. Both expenses are large, not negotiable, and coming up quicker than I would like to see.

So, the bottom line is this: the offers for help and storage are generous beyond words, and appreciated more than I can ever say. However, as unpolished as it may sound, I simply need the money at this point in my life. Getting this treatment and getting my daughter to college is my priority right now. I can't very well enjoy the car if I'm not alive to drive it. I am resolute that I will work as hard as I need to, as long as I need to, to get myself, my life and my health back on track. I'm in a rough place in life right now, but I have every hope and confidence that I will emerge from this ordeal a stronger and better man than the one who entered. It's an unfortunate fact of life that not everything always works itself out on it's own. I need to buckle down and get this done, and that means I need to sell my car. Heartbreaking, yes, but necessary as well.

Alas, none of us have an inherent entitlement to these wonderful toys. Between choices made in life and fate encountered as life goes on, some of us find ourselves to be in a position to be able to financially afford these wonderful machines, and some of us can only dream. I was once in a position to be able to fulfill the dream, now due to fate and choices I've made in life I am no longer in such a position. I go on with the hope that this one day will change, and the dream will re-present itself. Thanks to you all for the kind words and the generous offers to help. I will never forget the kindness that has been sent my way on these few posts. On a dark and sad day for me you brought me a bit of sunshine, and I thank you all so much for that. Believe me, I can use all that I can get. Thank you to all, I am at a loss for words to express my gratitude and admiration for you all. I must simply settle on thank you.

If anyone knows of someone who may be interested in the car, please send them my way.
Again, thank you to you all.

Doug