04/10/2026
Mōrena ataahua community,
3 weeks ago, my dear old dad, Chris, better known to most as ‘Farf’, began experiencing chest pains. After a bit of stoicism, he was convinced by his darling daughter that this was not to be taken lightly and medical attention was required. A misdiagnosis of indigestion started the process. A prompt visit to Kawakawa the next day, and since then, to Whangarei and now Auckland for triple bypass surgery tomorrow.
My dad jumped onboard as my number one fan when I bought Calypso Takeaways Kerikeri. He made the counter tops and built facades. He fixed stuff and installed stuff and decided to learn how to use Xero so he could look after the accounts for me and take care of the payroll. He cleans the greasy mats with a water blaster every week, and grows hydroponic lettuce at home for the burgers. Whenever the shop is doing well, he hugs me proudly. And the months when it doesn’t, he hugs me safely.
Dad has also immersed himself in the Dementia Support Community of Kerikeri in solidarity with others who are in the process of losing their loved-ones to dementia. He is a leader, and a carer, and is well-loved by those who cross his path.
The last 4 years, my dad has shown up for me like never before, and the last two weeks with him away have been very confronting.
There are two reasons I share this post today.
1. As I have talked with the support people around me, I have learnt that it is not uncommon for heart issues to be misdiagnosed as reflux and/or indigestion. Even ECG tests come back clear when there is trouble. It is SO important to trust your intuition and continue to seek and demand the help you need. Our medical system is under the pump, and sometimes we must show up for ourselves to support that system to give us what we require.
2. This morning a special friend also lost her wonderful father to a heart attack and it is all very close to home. The people we love are so very precious and it can all be over so quickly. I ask you today to reach out and share love with your people, your whānau, and acknowledge all the beautiful things about them. Our time here is fleeting. We mustn’t take it for granted.
Thank you to the very many people who have reached out in support, and I assure you, all of your loving thoughts will be with us tomorrow.
P.s they’ve shaved his beard off for surgery which will delight a lot of people he knows! 🙄😊
❤️
