Jim Shaffer, KE5AL, Advocate For Blind Hams Becomes SK At 72

An advocate for hams who are blind and for the Handiham program that serves amateur radio operators with disabilities has become a Silent Key. We hear about him from Travis Lisk N3ILS.

The amateur radio software developed by Jim Shaffer, KE5AL, gave hams who are blind the ability to control and monitor their HF rigs without needing a sighted person's assistance, providing the freedom of independent operating in their shacks. The retired IBM software engineer knew that operating challenge all too well: he was blind since birth.

Jim became a Silent Key on the 2nd December 2025. According to his online obituary, the Texas resident died of complications from Parkinson's disease.

Jim's well-known applications, JJRadio and JJ Flex Radio, attracted attention for their promise of accessibility when used with many different radio models. His development of the free programs brought him to the attention of host Hap Holly/KC9RP, host of the RAIN Report, which featured an interview with Jim. Hap, who became a Silent Key earlier this year, had also been blind since birth -- and like Jim, also supported the Handiham program, which trains and serves the community of hams with disabilities.

Non-hams in Central Texas also knew Jim well for his other deep involvement: He was a versatile musician and popular fiddler in a number of music groups, including the Piney Grove Ramblers.

Dr Bob Whelan, G3PJT - Silent Key

It is with great sadness that we share the news that Dr Bob Whelan, G3PJT became a Silent Key on 4 December 2025.

Bob’s contribution to amateur radio was extensive. First licensed in 1961, his main interest was in HF/LF CW operation. In this he soon became a strong supporter of the Commonwealth Contest, operating from a number of DX locations for the contest over many years. He wrote the book “Reflections in a Rosebowl” which covers the history of the Commonwealth Contest, and he put much effort into building an online Commonwealth Contest community.

Bob also played very significant roles in the RSGB, IARU and FOC (First Class Operators Club). For the RSGB, he started his volunteering as a member of the RSGB HF Committee and Management Committees and later was President from 2002-2003 and again from 2013-2014.

The RSGB Accessibility Champion

The RSGB is looking for a proactive and knowledgeable volunteer to serve as its new Accessibility Champion. This important role will focus on ensuring that people with disabilities can fully participate and enjoy everything that amateur radio has to offer.

Key responsibilities of the role will be engaging with the amateur radio community, serving as a point of contact and signposting people to resources that can help them, as well as raising awareness of the challenges faced by individuals and sharing inspiring stories.

If you have a strong understanding of accessibility issues, ideally with personal experience or professional expertise, and are passionate about inclusion within amateur radio, the Society would love to hear from you.

If you’re interested in finding out more, including having a chat about the role, please firstly read the full role description on the RSGB website and then contact RSGB Board Director Nathan Nuttall, 2M0OCC.