I didn’t actually imagine myself completing this thing. What a beast. My advisor was unavailable for months due to family health issues, and then a family death. I was unavailable due to my own family health issues where my wife was hospitilized several times (without insurance). Also, I had two young kids (pre-k), and had to work during my PhD. During my studies I had to overcome a stuttering/speech problem that made my presentations incoherent. I received no good feedback from my advisor in the six months leading up to my defense…. I went in BLIND. I had no idea what to expect. Somehow, I was able to pass with flying colors, and my family was able to survive the 5 years it took to complete it. My faith in God has been strengthened, and my self confidence has increased. I now have a position as a professor!!! If I could do it, anybody could to it.