Very great and helpful program I might add. Well, I have recently made a new friend whose name is JJ. He has had a troubled life and I need some support.

Here's my story:
JJ has had such a horrible past with his family; his mom abusive, and his dad, homeless and an alcoholic. With his history, he has become violent and short with everyone in group and it scares me.

A few weeks ago, he tried to commit suicide. He was in the hospital for a few days and I went to visit him. He told me that from excessive drinking because of his parents, he has developed a liver problem which he could die from if he doesn't stop. He was also told by his doctor that his thyroid cells were low (or something to that effect) and they have to manipulate his cells (surgery) in order for him to live. The surgery is difficult and life-threatening. He only has 30% chance of living.

I am scared for him not just for this surgery, but for his safety as well. He has been in trouble with the police for his behavior and fighting etc and says he'll do better, but there's been absolutely no change. I have listened to him, been there for him when he has needed me, and given him all the advice I have to offer. But, he just doesn't listen to me.

He keeps telling me that he's going to do better in program and try to be able to live on his own but I guess it's just hard for him b/c of his harsh past and I don't know what I can do for him anymore. He is a good person and he needs comfort etc and that's what I'm giving him. I've been a great friend to him though haven't I?

This surgery really scares him, and he said he doesn't want to die b/c he'll never get to see me again. I am really stuck and I wish that I could go in his place so he could try to have a better life. He's a really good guy at heart, all he needs is a little TLC.

I don't know what to do with him anymore. People have tried to help him but none of us think he listens. I know he's afraid of the surgery coming up at the end of March and I feel for him... I just wish that there was something else that I could do for him.

It's really upsetting for me b/c I don't think he's listening to me. I've made so much of an effort to try and get him to understand certain things, but I feel like everything I've been saying/doing is falling on deaf ears.

I just need to get all of this out. I can't keep this bottled up anymore.

Am I being a good friend to him? Is there something that I'm doing wrong? Is there something that I should be telling him that I'm not?

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