I understand the need for backup. He actually had an auto back to an external HD that also failed.
I have used PCs since my first purchase in 1984 of a TI portable and have never had a HD fail. I do routinely backup just in case there is a firt time.
And I’ve only used Macs. My first one was an Apple PowerPC 405 which I bought used from my oldest son. I can’t even remember how many years ago that was. That’s when Apple sold their computers bundled. I’ve had 3 new iMacs and two new iBooks in my life, and have passed them all down to my youngest son when I’ve bought a newer one. In all the years I’ve used Macs, I’ve never had a harddrive failure, and neither has my youngest son. People use whatever kind of computer they feel comfortable with. I’ve stuck with Apple because I’ve gotten well-running machines that have never had to be taken into a shop for repair. I’m from the old school: When you find something that works...you stick with it.