Sounds to me like that boat has some bad ju-ju. Maybe even bordering on evil. Might have to sell it with a health warning.
The Alaskan can be outfitted to be a pretty darned comfortable boat. And is easily launched and operated when life has dealt you more than the average aches and pains. I surely have not experienced what you have. But, in the ten years I suffered with chronic pain
(at some times severe enough to contemplate my own demise) I came to appreciate the simpler/lighter things in life.
I gave up the drifters after my first back surgery. I sure do miss the fast water and the river excitement. It was hard to give up the smell of the wood and what I had made with my own two hands. I made sure they went to some good kids. Ones I felt appreciated the work I put into them and would treat them well. But, the adventure of building them was 75% of the experience. And, I felt that if I began to feel better I could always do it again.
A while back I found a doctor that was able to cure my pain. And though my main desire is to complete my high country hunting with this second lease on life. I am now looking forward to the day when I can taste the saw dust again and smell the spice of fresh cut cedar once more. Whether I will be young enough or healthy enough to reap the rewards when finished I do not know. However, the anticipation of the chore is growing stronger with every completed hunt.
I believe it is more than ok to sacrifice your creation for simplicity and comfort now. As long as you can still hold on to the dream of rebirth in the future. For it is the dreams of things to come that keep us going, not the gratification of our accomplishments.
I will be wishing you the best in your decision. And praying for your health.
