Question:
My dad is in his early 40's and has had 3 heart attacks. He has had several cardiac cath's done and 7 stents put in his heart to open up blockages. He continues to smoke and doesn't do anything that the doctor suggest. He had another cardiac cath a few days ago and the doctor said his heart muscle is very week because of his previous heart attacks and it won't get any stronger. It's not helping that he still smokes. The docter said that due to the weak heart muscle there is a likely chance that he could just collapse one day and he recommended that he have a Automatic Internal Cardiac Defibrillator placed in his heart that will automatically shock it back in to a normal rhythm if needed. Why does he not seem to take these things seriously. I don't know what to do. I want him to be around for awhile. But he has the 'whatever happens attitude'.
Answers:
You might sit down with him and explain your wish to have him around. You might ask him to envision what it would be like, or how he would feel, if he were to pass away in the next few years due to his lifestyle. Fear is a great motivator. Also, you could follow up and ask him to envision what he could do to avoid this situation. He needs to make a written list of goals with specific steps/actions that will lead him towards those goals. He also needs to tell everyone he knows what his plans are so that he is committed to them. Hope this helps.
There is probably an underlying cause for his self destructing ways. Unfortunately, it does not seem as if he plans on sharing it with any one. Seeing a professional might help but he needs to want to do that. Forcing him will not work. He is very aware of what may happen and only he can chose to change it. I watched my own father take the same road. Simply pray for him and tell him often that you love him. Maybe something will click. Try your best not to let it engulf your life as cruel as that may sound - I learned the hard way.
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