Answer the question about text:

As if it was n't hard enough just being away from them , I was also dealing with my father and everything that revolved around his cancer diagnosis and treatment . In an ideal situation I would have simply arranged to bring him back to Chicago for that . Unfortunately , my father was a stubborn man and set in his ways , and he was n't leaving his home and friends .

What may be the reason for not forcing their father to go to Chicago ?
They want to respect his wishes .