Happy Father’s Day Y’All!
Wishing all you men out there a wonderful day. I know how great y’all are, especially after hanging in there with my menopause series of emails. LOL!
Thank you for being good examples to those around you, leading the way, taking power over your health and being here.
I honor you.
And as I honor my own dad on this Father’s Day, I reflect on the past many years; the ups and downs with his health, the hospitalization and subsequent caregiving, his healing journey…and now, with him 90 years old, enjoying his poker, and going strong.
He is still telling me his stories, like how he entered the Navy at age 17 to fight in WWII. He went into combat on Navy fighters then; being multi-lingual was trained in other languages, and sent to the Middle East as a Naval Attaché. Dad was perfect for this because he’s naturally gregarious, hospitable, generous, and has a contagious smile and laugh, and still does.
But 11 years ago this lovely, gregarious man was weak and somber. At the time I had asked him: “Dad, I can tell you’re not feeling well. May I speak with your doctors and see if I can help in any way?”
I’d gathered a lot of info already before I spoke with his doctors. Then, I had to ignore my dad’s cardiologist who said something about my dad having led a good life! Wait, he had so many more good years and good stories to go! And his doctors were saying he had led a good life, so just move on? Absolutely not!
You can read more about how I was able to heal my dad, here.
You can read more about my thoughts on caregiving, here.
And yes, he’s had his share of health bumps on the road over the years, but for the most part my wonderful dad maintains an active and blessed life.
And my family is fortunate to still have him in our lives.
What have I learned from my Dad (especially in these past 11 years)?
Lead with love and respect
You’re the best advocate your family has
You are a product of how you address your life’s conflicts
When caregiving, take care of yourself, guiltlessly
We are not limited by our age
Our spirit never ages
Live in the day…you never know what tomorrow may bring
I hope you have a Father’s Day full of hugs and wonderful (old and new!) stories.
Wishing you a vida pura,
Anna Cabeca, DO, FACOG, ABAARM
P.S. Here is a delicious Mighty Maca recipe just for you Dads! Enjoy!
Banana Almond Green Smoothie
- 1 scoop Mighty Maca
- 1.5 c Cold Green Tea
- 10-12 raw almonds
- 2″ banana slice
