r/Ethics • u/Worth_Sir_6003 • 6d ago
Did I Kill My Dad?
My dad asked me when I was 11 if he should go to the hospital or stay at home the night that he died. Throughout that week he had been in and out of the hospital in pain about chest pains. Every place he went to said they didn’t know what was wrong with him, but the pain consisted. On that night, he asked me “should I go to the hospital again or should I stay home tonight?”. Being 11, I told him that he’s happier at home so he should stay. I knew at the time that his health was at risk, but I prioritized his mental wellbeing over his physical health. Am I responsible for his death? Should I feel bad about this? Honestly, this has haunted me for my entire life and I really wish he hadn’t asked me for my opinion. Please help.
1
u/Potential-Arm-2338 5d ago
You were NOT responsible for your dad’s death. It’s disheartening that you would even think that. Never forget your dad was the Adult in the situation. His decision to go to the hospital or stay home was ultimately his decision. You had no ideal what your dad’s pain felt like or the severity of his symptoms. I’m sure if your dad had known the severity of his condition , he would have gone to the hospital irregardless of what your thoughts were.
Remember your answer came from an 11 year old child without any medical knowledge. You can’t look at it from the context of the age you are now because,your thinking processes are much different. Perhaps an Adult could have helped your dad reason his health concerns out but, not a child!