There is a pervasive issue in older 15-in "dual graphics" MacBook pro 2011 models. In many cases, the Discrete graphics chip get worn out or damaged in such a way that it can not work, but the system thinks it can. if you ever allow it to try to work, your Mac goes dormant, never to re-awaken.
If you are content to:
• NEVER connect an external display and
• NEVER allow your mac to Sleep (just leave it running and sleep the display), or shut it down at the end of the day, Then:
there is a small set of software patches you can apply that will patch the Discrete graphics chip out.
It was developed by a member of the Hackintosh community, so links are sometimes removed. We are not supposed to Volunteer the detailed information unless you ask it to be posted.