Me mate Jim, skipper of the boat "Zapped" has colon cancer. He's within a couple of days of leaving this world. He's someone I've joked with, raced against, helped out, been helped by, had dinner with and downed a few beers with.

He's a mighty fine sailor. And he's all of 52 years old. I've been in touch with his Longtime girlfriend for the last few days.

I'm having a hard time with this one.

I'll be a bit more chipper as I gain perspective. Carry on.