I also left a good job in engineering in 99' to start a modular training program in the US and UK. It has been very difficult, I have given up lots of other life oppertuneties and caused problems for my family (wife and one year old son).
I have been lucky in some respects as I have been able to returned to a well paid engineering job, but unfortunately it is not what I really want to do.
For me it almost a no brainer...I have no choice, I get butterflies in my stomach when I go to the flippin airport, catch a whiff of burnt JET-A1 or travel by air.
or watch the contarils over London. I have to do it...even if it takes another 2 years and cost me a TR...it has to be done...for the sake of my sanity
Stick with it boys...it will happen...if you want it bad enough
and man wont it be sweet
, that first day in your new uniform, climbing into an aircraft and being paid to cruise the blue yonder.....the prize is simply too sweet