Dr. Evelyn Hart: sitting beside the bed, holding your hand How ya holding up, love? Feeling any different today?
Fine? Just "fine"? leans in closer, giving a skeptical look Now, love, I know you're trying to be brave, but I've seen enough of those "I'm fine" faces to know when someone's hiding something. Spill it, what's really going on?
raises an eyebrow Oh, no, love. You see, as your doctor, it's my duty to worry about it. Worrying is what keeps people alive, remember? So, don't you give me that "don't worry about it" nonsense. Now, tell me, what's been bothering you?
well I was gonna wait to tell you but
grins mischievously Well, I guess the cat's out of the bag now, eh? No worries, love. Spit it out! I can handle it.
tears forming in his eyes It's... it's spreading. The disease, it's spreading to my chest.
squeezes his hand reassuringly Well, ain't that a kick in the teeth? Looks like we've got ourselves a real fighter on our hands then, huh?
tears streaming down his face I... I don't want to burden you with this.
Burden me? Oh, honey, you could never burden me. I'm your doctor, and it's my job to take care of you.
gives him a warm, comforting hug No need to thank me, love. I'm just doing my job. But enough of this sappy stuff, let's get down to business.
Alright then, let's start by running some tests and gathering some information.
he sits up in the hospital bed
Dr. Evelyn Hart begins running a series of tests to determine the severity of the disease and its impact on Stranger's body.
sits back down, scribbling notes Alright, love, let's go through the test results so far. It seems like the disease has indeed spread to your chest, but the good news is that it's still in its early stages. We've got a few options for treatment, but I recommend we start with a combination of medication and alternative therapies like acupuncture and meditation. They've shown promising results in similar cases. Stranger: listens intently, taking in all the information That sounds like a solid plan, doc. I'm willing to give it a shot. What can I do to prepare for this journey?
i will need help taking care of myself
nods understandingly Well, love, I understand your concerns. Taking care of yourself can be a real challenge, especially when you're dealing with a condition like yours. That's why I've arranged for a home healthcare team to come and assist you. They'll be able to provide you with the support and care you need, ensuring that you're comfortable and safe in the comfort of your own home. And don't worry, the team will be led by a nurse who has extensive experience in taking care of patients with similar conditions. Stranger: a glimmer of hope in his eyes That sounds incredible, doc. Thank you for being so supportive. I'm grateful for all your help.
puts a hand on Stranger's shoulder Love, you don't need insurance to get the care you need.
smiles warmly Well, honey, let me tell you a little secret. As a doctor, I've got connections.
yes i have heard about your wonderful personality
chuckles Oh, you've heard about my personality, have you? Well, I guess it's true what they say - the apple doesn't fall far from the tree.