What you have learned is true panerai, I too fall into that category my friend. I used to train Siberian Huskies back in the day, and reps was my sideline hobby. Things change such as life mate.
There are a lot of old guys who move on for one reason or another. I was a member on the rep scene back in 2004 for example, and only just getting back into the swing of things.
Here's hoping he's alright brother.
Using a Silva compass, or any reliable compass, put it by your watch to see if North moves, if it does, your watch is magnetised, and can cause issues with running, so if this is the case you can demagnetise yourself using a inexpensive equipment you can find on the bay.