Well the day has finally arrived; I have to take a break from golf. As many of you know, I am going through chemotherapy and yesterday I needed to have a PICC line installed. It is the nature of my treatments and it is the safest path forward for improved long-term personal health. I actually stopped playing last Thursday, but yesterday was the final step. So the real question for me today is: Now What!

Saving my golf swing until 2019.
I am not exactly sure how long I will be off the course, but I expect the rest of our season. If I make it back before mid October, that would be a boon. But until then, I have to fill the void and I have a plan!
First, I am going to complete the written component of the Golf Canada Level 2 officials education program. This step is just one of several I have in mind and they will be addressed next year.
Next, I want to try to complete the on the job training part of 20 hours at my local course either as a scorer, umpire, or marshal. I have confirmed with the GM/Managing Director of Osprey Links Golf Course, Jeff Rogerson, that I can definitely be involved with enough events to meet this requirement.
After completing these two components, I will officially be a Level 2 official. I plan to work towards Level 3 and Level 4, but they are more involved. I figure if I am going to continue flaming my passion for golf, I should know how to implement all the rules!
Additionally, I plan to follow other golf blogs, golf news, and living vicariously through the rounds of my friends. I know this is not as exciting as playing, but ‘I gotta do, what I gotta do!’ Of course, I am going to continue writing and talking about golf issues, but that was a given regardless of my health.
So there you have it, I am taking a hiatus with no solid end in sight. Of course I am disappointed, but when life gives you lemons – it is time to go to the range and practice!
I am a grateful golfer! See you on the links!
Jim,
As I’ve mentioned before, your positive attitude is inspiring and will help bring you back to health and on the course sooner than expected I am sure. Keep doing great things with the blog and promoting the game – I look forward to it.
All the best.
Josh
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Thanks Josh!
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Positive thoughts coming your way. Look forward to hearing about your return to the links. I have marked my golf balls with the ribbon for the last 30 years. Yellow balls get the black ribbon, white ones get the pink. My sister beat it, as did my Dad. Had some guys make fun of my ball markings a couple of times, Didn’t last long! Looking forward to your next post.
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Pee Wee
Thank you very much for the kind words. I am hoping to be back as soon as possible, but with your understanding and experience, there is no time line. I love your tribute to your sister and day. I am sure they appreciate your positive support.
Cheers
Jim
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Be back soon Jim..
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Thanks Bruce.
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Really sorry to hear about the forced early end to your golf season. Judging from the other comments, your attitude over it is an inspiration for all of us. We wish you a speedy recovery.
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Thanks Kevin.
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Jim, there is always a golf cart here with your name on it to travel the course to visit friends while they play, or just to spend a few hours enjoying the sites, sounds and smells of golf.
Osprey Links Golf
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Thanks, that is awesome and I plan to take you up on your generous offer.
Cheers Jim
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We’ll be praying for a speedy recovery. Best wishes through this ordeal. Keep your head up and kick butt!
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Thanks Jimmy!
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Hi Jim, I know you will continue writing and inspiring golfers even if you can’t swing a club yourself for a wee while. Best wishes and I look forward to reading more of your blogs.
Cheers,
Tiffany
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Thanks Tiff.
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Jim,
Unfortunately I know all to well what a PICC line is. Great to see you remain positive and as always your outlook continues to inspire. Sending positive thoughts my friend.
Stephen McRae
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Thanks Stephen. Thanks for the positive support.
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Hey Jim,
Sorry to hear that you will miss some of this season. I admire your strength in dealing with the situation. Fight the good fight and I know you will be back out there soon!
All the best,
Jimmy K
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Thanks Jimmy! I cannot get back soon enough!
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Jim, take your time, whip this thing, come back strong. Love your plan. God bless and take care.
Brian
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Thanks Brian.
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Jim
Your positive outlook is amazing and soon you will be back on the course until then I will reassure you that all my golf balls will be marked with your initials JB and I encourage all others to do the same… so while your training for your next fight remember our thoughts and prayers will be with you on every shot ( JB )
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Mike
You are too koms. Your positive support is overwhelming. Thanks k you!
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Best wishes for a speedy recovery.
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Thanks David.
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Jim, the course and fellow golfers will certainly miss you while you take your hiatus.
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Thanks Kirk. I hope it is only a short time.
Cheers Jim
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