Unless a miracle happens in the next three days, I will most likely be giving up my place in the SPILS. I am very sad for the unfortunate turn of events (i.e. insufficient funding), but I take comfort in the fact that a life changing opportunity will be opening for somebody else. So, as I said above, keep the faith because one of you will be receiving a call soon.
So sorry to hear about that Sir Oldtimer, may you have the very best of luck with your study plan and overcome all these difficulties with ease!