My father suffered a massive heart attack six years ago when he was 57 while helping me move to Florida. He lost 2/3 of his heart function when all was said and done.
My father was thin, active, and we thought healthy.
After my husband arrived home to watch our children, I went to see my father in the Intensive Care Unit of the closest hospital. He looked very scared and there were tears in both our eyes.
I said to him, "Daddy...are you still smoking?" His reply to me was the same da#% thing he's been saying for decades..."Nah...I quit years ago."
I placed Daddy's pajamas and a few other things he'd requested over by his bedside without saying a word. My thoughts were enough this time..."Tell that to the pack of cigarettes in your suitcase, Daddy."
It just breaks my heart.
And, yes I watched my father die from disease that was caused by his smoking.