My father has an aorta dissection just a day or so ago with surgery being done tomorrow. i am freaking out. how can i prevent this am i at risk? rare?

Life requires: more bravery than this: ALWAYS stay in reality, things are what they are, deal with them as best possible or you risk declining into wishing, wanting, and hoping which are as dangerous as alcohol. HRS, MD, FACC

You're too young(24): Risk factors for aortic dissection include high blood pressure, smoking, Marfan's syndrome, Vascular Ehler-Danlos syndrome, bicuspid aortic valve, trauma, and cystic medial necrosis. It typically occurs in men over age 50. Incidence is 0.2-0,8 per 100,000/year (it's rare) There IS increased incidence in families, but no where near 100% You need a screening echo and periodic followup.