I think daphna's advice is good. I second it.
Speaking as someone who did a career switch, I offer the following observations:
* The debt (or savings ding), the pay cut, and the career plateau (even a temporary one) are both frightening and frustrating. The financial squeeze is a tough pill to swallow.
* You risk going back to square one and paying your dues all over again.
* And even if you manage to pull it off successfully, there's no guarantee you'll like the new stuff. You may even find yourself in a fun factory no different than the one you left.
If you can, find a way to TRY the new stuff before you let go of the rung you're holding now.
Of course, the best solution would be to make a series of job changes that move you closer to your goal incrementally. Movements within the organization are the best since a good reputation can compensate for lack of direct skills. Of course, not every org. is good for this.
Just my $.02.
