I read through this earlier but didn't have a great time to leave a comment. This is quite the story. It seems true that the "grand adventures" I read about and view from a distance contain equal if not more difficulty versus pleasure than is apparent from a fancy write up or pretty photos. I have a friend who looks at moves and changes in life as growth opportunities, and I don't doubt you're receiving a lot of experience to grow from. Anyway, glad your safe and I'm enjoying the photos!
Yes it certainly changes you as a person. I have not had a lot of time for photography; so hopefully that changes again.