I know a larger than life man who is now very old. Years ago, he assured me that he would go the helium route himself, as soon as he realized his mind was slipping. I wouldn't be surprised if I hear that news any day now, although it would be quite sad news. He has many grandchildren and great grandchildren, and thousands of people like me that had the pleasure of knowing him. Perhaps you two will bump into each other in a spiritual realm, and swap stories of sailing and computer history!
Laughing gas is nitrous oxide (N2O). I'm talking about normal atmospheric Nitrogen (N2). Nitrogen is available anywhere and significantly cheaper than Helium. Nitrogen can be used for welding or for brewing certain types of beer.
