Some times it isn't as simple as "he is an alcoholic". Unfortunately a lot of simple every day "medicines", like Tylenol, can be deadly when combined WITH alcohol and can cause or magnify liver damage. Tylenol, that many people take for a "hangover headache", can destroy an otherwise healthy liver. Had a brother in law who passed away at 42 due to massive liver failure. He played baseball in college, blew an achilles tendon, and had pain for the rest of his life ... that he used TYLENOL to alleviate. He also drank quite a bit, but never was known as a "drunk" or alcoholic. Then one day he didn't show up for a dinner invite. We haven't had Tylenol in our home for almost 30 years due to that event. Hope Bernie is able to live, with treatment, and enjoy the time he has left.