“Facing Denial, Embracing Vulnerability”
Join me and my guest Dr. Andrew G. Kadar. Dr. Kadar, is a renowned physician at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and was used to taking care of patients—not being one himself. But just as he was embarking on a new marriage, a few episodes of minor chest pain sent this healthy, successful anesthesiologist to his doctor’s office, where he received a shocking diagnosis: he had severe heart disease and required immediate open-heart surgery. With extraordinary wisdom and unflinching candor Dr. Kadar describes his unexpected journey as a man in seemingly excellent health into the dire realm of illness and subsequent recovery.
Dr. Kadar is a physician at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, a Diplomate of the American Board of Anesthesiology, and a Fellow of the American Society of Anesthesiologists. He graduated from the Yale University School of Medicine and completed his residency at Stanford and Harvard Universities (Massachusetts General Hospital). He has served on the faculties of the UCLA School of Medicine, Charles Drew University, and Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. He has appeared on Good Morning America and NBC Nightly News, as well as Air Talk with Larry Mantle and The Dennis Prager Show.
Summary
In this episode, Dr. Andrew Kadar shares his unexpected journey through a significant health challenge, exploring themes of denial, vulnerability, and the importance of communication. He reflects on the lessons learned from his experience as both a doctor and a patient, emphasizing the need for connection, appreciation, and a positive impact on others. The discussion also touches on the role of caregivers and the shift in perspective regarding life and mortality.
Takeaways
Denial can hinder our ability to face health challenges.
Vulnerability fosters connection and understanding.
Communication is key in patient-caregiver relationships.
Health challenges can lead to personal growth and self-discovery.
It's important to appreciate the support of caregivers.
Life's unexpected events can be viewed as opportunities.
A positive mindset can influence recovery and resilience.
We should strive to make a positive impact on others.
Understanding mortality can shift our life priorities.
Everything in life eventually needs to be shared and distributed.
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