Decisions, Decisions.

A few weeks ago, my parents had their annual lab tests and stress tests. My mom's the one who usually feels chest pains and experiences difficulty in breathing. My dad never really complained about anything. So we were all surprised when it was his stress test that showed some irregularities. The doctor suggested to perform angiogram to see what the problem really is.

Dad: "Walang makikitang problema dito.. Be positive."

As much as we wanted to believe that, the results proved otherwise. Three of his heart's major arteries were about 90% blocked. According to the cardiologist, my dad could suffer a heart attack even if he's not doing anything. And with his heart's current condition, there's a high chance it would be fatal.

Mom: "Pero doc, wala naman po sya nararamdaman.."
Doctor: "Ganun po talaga ang heart attack misis, silent killer."

Then he went on about his findings, showed us the diagrams, discussed the procedure, estimated cost, etc. He continually stressed the urgency of the situation and wanted us to decide right then and there. As the eldest, my mom needed me to make the decision. Do we stay at The Medical City or transfer my dad to the Philippine Heart Center? Do we proceed with the angioplasty or with a triple bypass surgery? Do we need to get a second opinion? God, what do I know?

My brother and I did some research, my mom sought the opinion of another doctor, but in the end, my dad still had the final say. He said he wanted to stay at The Medical City and that he's more comfortable with the angioplasty. Gave the go signal to the doctor and had my dad scheduled for the procedure. In just a matter of days, our hospital bill shot up to Php800,000. And that is exclusive of the cardiologist's fee, which brought the total to roughly a million. The personnel handling our account helped us exhaust every available option that could somehow cut our expenses. Thanks to her, about a hundred thousand pesos got deducted from our bill.

Thankfully, my dad's fine now. The doctor said it's like he has a brand new heart. I thank God for the successful procedure and for helping us through. This experience may have left us physically, emotionally and financially drained, but it also brought our family closer in love and in faith.

Ilabas ang lechon! Hehe.