topic Re: Had a heart attack in Feb retured to work found out that the CEO made a joke about my heart atta in Anxiety

Had a heart attack in Feb retured to work found out that the CEO made a joke about my heart attack

Guest_53285087 — Thu, 06 Aug 2026 04:16:41 GMT

Has any body had this happen in the work place

Re: Had a heart attack in Feb retured to work found out that the CEO made a joke about my heart atta

white knight — Thu, 06 Aug 2026 11:47:43 GMT

Hi, welcome

Imagine if you was the only human on earth, how would our feelings get hurt? They wouldn't.

Humans can be really hurtful but are their comments intentional? Not always. So decades ago I identified that it was too stressful for me to not seek clarification and seek it as soon as possible alone.

As they're your boss it might be difficult so I'd choose words carefully. "Excuse me, can I have a quiet word? I was just a little sensitive over the heart joke, its been a tough road"

I hope that helps

TonyWK

Re: Had a heart attack in Feb retured to work found out that the CEO made a joke about my heart atta

DesertSchmezert — Fri, 07 Aug 2026 10:45:30 GMT

Hello,

Whilst Tony makes a good point about not allowing our feelings to be compromised by others and their words, I agree that this is not appropriate conduct. You are an important part of the team that supports your organisation, and you deserve solace and respect. Making a joke about a near-death medical emergency is distasteful, disrespectful, and completely insensitive.

Even if he didn't intend to be hurtful, it shouldn't have been said. Definitely choose your words carefully, as managers or CEOs can become defensive easily, but don't feel you have to just let it slide. You could consider speaking with HR, a union representative, or addressing it calmly with him if you feel safe doing so.

Additionally, you could contact the following services for advice and support:

Fair Work Ombudsman: For advice on workplace rights and protections.
Your Workplace EAP (if available): For confidential counseling.
Beyond Blue Support Service (1300 22 4636): For mental health and emotional support.