2 doctors share thoughts on fatherhood
As Father's Day approaches, dads around Butler County are gearing up for a day of appreciation and reflection on their role as fathers.
Among them are Drs. David Vasil and Shripal Shrishrimal, who work at Butler Memorial Hospital, part of Independence Health System. Shrishrimal, a father of two teenagers, and Vasil, a father of two children under the age of 2, share their insights on fatherhood amid the joyful chaos of raising children.
“The peaks and troughs of parenthood is so exciting,” Shrishrimal said. “There is no other relationship like it.”
Vasil, who welcomed his second son in March, said being a parent is “extremely rewarding,” and while it does seem scary at times, he and his wife are ready for this next adventure.
“The hardest part was after we had him because now, we have two under the age of 2 — the first one was easy,” he said laughing.
For many fathers, the transition to parenthood can be both exhilarating and challenging, particularly when juggling the needs of multiple young children.
“Don't stress about preparing how to be a dad,” Vasil said. “Your child really just wants your time, attention and affection. Talk to them, laugh with them and hug them often. Give them that, and they will thrive.”
Shrishrimal echoed the same sentiment and spoke of how there is not a blueprint for parenthood. He said the evolution of the bond between a father and his child takes patience and love.
“You have to help guide them thorough life experiences,” he said. “It should be a very unconditional and nonjudgmental relationship.”
Both doctors spoke of fatherhood as one of their greatest accomplishments and stressed that love, values and faith endure across generations.
“It is truly the most rewarding, purpose-filled thing I've done,” Vasil said. “Everything else I do in life will be forgotten. For example, some things I do in the hospital as a physician or leader will change and become obsolete years from now.
“Raising my children to love and respect other people and have faith in God will hopefully carry on for generations to come.”
