On the one hand, maybe he was gifted extra time with us because of his moderate but intermittent exercise efforts.  On the other hand, I know he should have been in the care of a cardiologist, probably on a statin medication and watching his food choices more attentively.  I am personally devastated on so many levels by this loss of a friend, but especially because I really listened to his advice, so why couldn't he have listened to mine?? As a lifestyle coach I recognize denial can be powerful.  And that even in the face of a catastrophic health crisis like a heart attack or stroke - 50% of survivors will shift their lifestyle choices to healthier ones, forever, while 50% will be "reformed lifestyle addicts" for a few months and then slowly restore their old destructive ways.  We are human and that's what we do.  We tempt fate and we believe that bad things won't happen to us.  The only caveat is that when family depends on you emotionally and financially, maybe, just maybe, you have to try to be a bit less selfish and make a better effort to take care of yourself.....for them.  So that you don't end up a burden, if you do survive a crisis in a permanent compromisedstate, and so that you don't ....die prematurely.

My fervent hope is that this story will inspire even one person, who is not making the time to see a doctor or to get help with their diet or exercise, to make 2009 the year they are a bit more selfish about their health and their health needs.  Know your family history, know your risks for heart disease, establish a relationship with a health professional and then team up with friends and family, so that everyone supports each other with healthier habits.  It's a win-win for the team!!