I used to follow avidly the forum thread "Good Night and Good Morning", although I never contributed. I saw that Dave had way more than his share of life's burdens and yet overflowed with empathy for others. I realised he was loved by those Forum members who knew him best, and admired by many others - myself included.
Ren and the Arran Sweater brought me to happy tears, but I know that many other people looked out for him from across the world as best they could, and received in return simple, honest wisdom.
A little while back, going through chemo, I needed a hat for special occasions. One hat-box was labelled "Gatsby". I chose it sight unseen because I admired Dave's attitude in the face of adversity. So what if it was purple cloche? I wore it with head held high.
Gatsby (the hat) is now in a drawer, hopefully never to be needed again.
Gatsby - David (the man) will always be in my mind as one of the most inspirational people I never knew.
