I think similar scenarios probably happen often with other backup software. If an author spends too much time on a project, then the project needs to make money for the author. The most common options, which this particular author tried, are to find a job that allows the author to work on the software or to get donations / sponsorship.
I have nothing but respect for an author that makes this hard choice instead of letting the software they have poured their heart and soul die a slow death.