I met my father at the hospital this weekend, for which he had to take an ambulance to because of extreme shortness of breath and a clammy feeling to his skin. Not a fun experience. He has some health problems that are related to some later-life weight gain, as all Americans seem to. He also has some genetic conditions that don't help, such as his micro-valve leak in his heart.
He's doing fine now. Mostly this scare is a reminder of a few things:
1. As much as I hate hospitals and doctor appointments, sometimes you just gotta go. Pay attention to your body and don't "wait it out."
2. Continue or start a healthy lifestyle. Consider a smoothie in place of that 5th cookie. Try to walk at least 30 minutes a few times a week. I was forced to walk around in London to get around; American life is so sedentary and I HATE it!
3. Call your parent today and tell them you love them.
I hate that I'm at that age where I have to think about these things. But this weekend is a reminder that there's not much of a choice anymore.
He's doing fine now. Mostly this scare is a reminder of a few things:
1. As much as I hate hospitals and doctor appointments, sometimes you just gotta go. Pay attention to your body and don't "wait it out."
2. Continue or start a healthy lifestyle. Consider a smoothie in place of that 5th cookie. Try to walk at least 30 minutes a few times a week. I was forced to walk around in London to get around; American life is so sedentary and I HATE it!
3. Call your parent today and tell them you love them.
I hate that I'm at that age where I have to think about these things. But this weekend is a reminder that there's not much of a choice anymore.
I feel you. I've been struggling with this realization. No more time left to put it off! Sending healthy vibes to you and your dad.
ReplyDeletei'm sorry ashley!! sending you a hug. thanks for the reminder. i hope he's on the upswing now..
ReplyDeleteSo sorry about this. You hear about these things happening every day, but when it hits close to home, it feels way too real. The good thing (and something to focus on) is that he's doing well now. Glad to hear it.
ReplyDeleteI am sorry to hear this, I hope he is fine now and will stay fine. Your number 1 is so true. But it is so scary sometimes when you suspect something is wrong. How do you know if its just fright / 'hypochondria' - or actually something wrong? After a close family member died of cancer I can only say that my biggest fear is probably getting that same diagnose. But does it make me more scared of all sorts of "signals" than someone who has not lived that experience? I always try to give it as little focus as possible but I hardly ever go to the doctor and I dunno if I should. Oh well, blablabla. I hope your family is fine, and you too!
ReplyDeleteYour list is just spot on (UK phrase to better connect). Glad you've realized these things early. Also glad your father is doing better.
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